A Chinese green energy company is exploring plans to establish a waste-to-energy and oil refining facility in Ghana as part of a new industrial partnership aimed at advancing renewable energy and reducing petroleum imports in West Africa, according to the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
The investment, led by a Shandong-based firm, is expected to support Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda by creating jobs, adding value to waste materials, and promoting environmentally sustainable manufacturing. The initiative aligns with the government’s push to attract foreign direct investment into green and value-added sectors.
Receiving the delegation in Accra, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, said Ghana remains one of the most attractive and secure destinations for foreign investors on the continent. “Ghana is a stable democracy governed by the rule of law. Investments here are protected, and our judicial system works effectively to safeguard business interests. We are ready to support you one hundred percent as you establish your operations,” he assured.
Ahi mentioned that ventures such as the proposed waste recycling and energy conversion plant fit directly within the government’s industrialization strategy, which seeks to reduce imports and encourage local production. He praised the collaboration between Akosombo Textiles Limited (ATL) and the Chinese partners, calling for sustained technical and financial support to revitalize local industries.
“The ball is in your court. Ghana is ready to receive you, and we are open for business,” he said, adding that the Ministry and its agencies, including the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, would assist the investors through the process.
The Chinese delegation, led by Liu Xiaorui, Chief Executive Officer of the Shandong-based company, outlined plans to build a facility that converts waste materials into oil, diesel, and other chemical products using low-carbon technology. Liu said his company recycles more than 1.5 million tonnes of waste annually in China and supplies sustainable fuel to European markets and global shipping lines.
He cited Ghana’s strategic location, port infrastructure, and stable governance as key factors behind the company’s choice.
Dr. Philip Osafo, Director at ATL, who accompanied the delegation, noted that the Chinese firm has supplied ATL with raw materials, yarn, and fuel for nearly a decade and is now ready to relocate part of its fuel and chemical production to Ghana to serve the broader West African market.
The delegation has already visited ATL’s Akosombo facilities, the Bright Industrial Park at Afienya, and the Tema Port, and is scheduled to meet the National Petroleum Authority to discuss regulatory and licensing requirements.
