GEXIM@10: GNCCI calls for tax, energy reforms to unlock Ghana’s export potential

GNCCI CEO Calls for Tax and Energy Reforms to Boost Ghana’s Export Competitiveness

Accra, March 26, 2026 — The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Mark Badu Aboagye, has urged comprehensive reforms in Ghana’s tax and energy sectors to strengthen the country’s position in the global export market. Speaking at the 10th anniversary international conference of the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM Bank) in Accra on Thursday, Mr. Badu Aboagye outlined the opportunities and challenges facing Ghanaian exporters.

According to Mr. Badu Aboagye, Ghana has significant export potential, particularly in manufacturing and value-added production, which could position the country as a major supplier in regional and global markets. He noted that high production costs remain a critical obstacle that prevents Ghanaian businesses from fully exploiting these opportunities.

“Ghana has a strong foundation for exports, especially in sectors such as manufacturing and value-added products. However, high production costs continue to limit our ability to compete effectively in global markets,” he said.

Mr. Badu Aboagye highlighted that several neighboring countries currently import building materials and plastics from international markets, including the United States, despite Ghana producing similar products locally. He stressed that with the right policy interventions and improvements in cost-efficiency, Ghana could replace some of these imports and increase its export earnings significantly.

He also pointed to emerging sectors, including garments and vehicle assembly, as medium- to long-term areas with high growth potential. “With the right support, including policies that encourage investment and reduce operational costs, these sectors could become major contributors to Ghana’s export portfolio,” he added.

The GNCCI CEO emphasised that two areas require urgent attention: energy sector reforms and tax reforms.

On the energy front, Mr. Badu Aboagye said that the high cost and inconsistent availability of electricity are significant burdens for manufacturers. “Energy reforms are key to ensuring that electricity is not only available but also reliable and affordable for producers. Without this, it is difficult for Ghanaian businesses to compete on the global stage,” he noted.

Regarding taxation, he highlighted that multiple taxes and levies imposed on production and exports further drive up operational costs, discouraging investment and limiting competitiveness. “Our tax system must be reviewed so that production and export activities are not unnecessarily penalised. This would make Ghana a more attractive destination for both local and foreign investors,” he said.

Mr. Badu Aboagye’s address coincided with discussions at the GEXIM Bank conference on ways to enhance Ghana’s export capacity and support local businesses in accessing international markets. Participants emphasised the need for integrated policy measures, including financial support for exporters, improved infrastructure, and regulatory reforms to streamline export processes.

Industry analysts have noted that Ghana’s manufacturing sector is facing growing competition from countries in the region and beyond. While Ghana produces high-quality products, issues such as high electricity tariffs, inconsistent supply of raw materials, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and heavy taxation undermine the country’s export competitiveness.

“Ghana has an opportunity to become a regional hub for value-added exports, but this requires decisive action on structural challenges,” Mr. Badu Aboagye concluded.

The GNCCI CEO’s call for reforms aligns with the government’s broader agenda of improving industrialisation and economic competitiveness, particularly in the face of increasing global trade pressures. Stakeholders at the conference reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with policymakers to ensure that Ghanaian businesses are positioned to expand exports, create jobs, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.