The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is calling for zero-rated import tariffs on essential raw materials used by Ghana’s leather producers, in a bid to reduce manufacturing costs and make locally produced goods more competitive.
The proposal emerged at a meeting of AGI leather producers on October 12, led by AGI Vice President Dela Gadzanku, where participants identified high input costs, limited market access and skills shortages as major constraints on the industry’s growth.
Beyond reducing production costs, producers said the industry needed more predictable demand for locally made leather goods to support business planning, investment and job creation. The meeting’s release described predictable demand as essential to “production planning, investment, job creation and the competitiveness of Ghanaian producers.”
To advance these priorities, participants established an advocacy committee to coordinate engagement with relevant stakeholders, including efforts to secure the proposed tariff relief from government.
The discussions also addressed the skills needed to expand local production. Participants called for practical training for artisans and partnerships with technical schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to help close gaps in the sector.
Access to finance was another concern. AGI said it had begun discussions with EXIM Bank and Development Bank on potential credit facilities for women in business. Feedback was expected within one week of the meeting, although no financing arrangements had been confirmed.
The next steps will focus on advancing the tariff proposal, improving market access, developing training partnerships and following up on the financing discussions.
