The government is set to waive taxes on agro-processing machinery to boost investment and productivity in Ghana’s agribusiness sector.
The Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mr Sampson Ahi, disclosed this on Monday at the Regional Agribusiness Dialogue in Sunyani.
He noted that the initiative forms part of a two-pronged strategy by the government to promote agro-industrialisation and ensure machinery sufficiency within the sector.
According to him, the decision to waive taxes will reduce costs for agro-processors, increase access to modern machinery and technology, and enhance efficiency across the value chain.
“In the medium to long term, government will retool and strengthen local machinery manufacturing, working closely with institutions such as the GRATIS Foundation under the Rural Enterprises Programme of the Ministry, with support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD),” he stated.
The Deputy Minister noted that the retooling effort will position local manufacturers to design, produce, and repair agro-processing machines, thereby reducing dependence on imports and promoting local content.
He emphasised that such interventions would not only drive productivity but also create jobs and stimulate innovation within the machinery manufacturing sector.
Touching on broader policy directions, Mr Ahi revealed that the Ministry is developing a comprehensive National Agribusiness Policy aimed at improving value addition, productivity, export competitiveness, and job creation within the sector.
“The policy focuses on the entire value chain from production to consumption to ensure sustainability, inclusivity, and growth. These regional consultations are crucial to identify region-specific priorities that will be incorporated into the draft policy,” he explained.
He highlighted the importance of the consultation theme, “Resetting Agribusiness for Inclusive and Sustainable Industrial Growth,” describing it as both timely and vital to Ghana’s economic transformation agenda.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD
