Ghana is moving to strengthen oversight of its informal retail sector and prevent unauthorised foreign participation in activities reserved for Ghanaian citizens under the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority Act, 2026 (Act 1173).
The Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA) and the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) outlined the measures at a strategic meeting convened under the directive of the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
GIPA Chief Executive Officer Simon Madjie reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to strengthening oversight and preventing unauthorised participation in activities reserved under the law.
The discussions also focused on “fronting”, where Ghanaian individuals or entities are used to conceal foreign ownership or control of businesses operating in reserved sectors.
As part of the proposed roadmap, GIPA and GUTA are seeking to strengthen an inter-agency task force and establish a dedicated monitoring and enforcement mechanism to address suspected violations.
The organisations also proposed creating a direct reporting channel for suspected breaches and increasing public education on the regulations governing reserved activities.
GIPA and GUTA said the measures are intended to protect livelihoods, uphold Ghana’s investment laws and promote a fair, orderly and lawful business environment.
