The government has announced plans to waive taxes on agro-processing machinery as part of efforts to stimulate investment, enhance productivity, and accelerate industrial growth in Ghana’s agricultural sector.
Mr. Sampson Ahi, Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, made the announcement at the Bono Regional Agribusiness Dialogue held in Sunyani.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Trade and Industry with support from Agri Impact, brought together key stakeholders, processors, and entrepreneurs from the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo Regions to discuss strategies for sustainable agribusiness transformation.
Speaking on the theme “Resetting Agribusiness for Inclusive and Sustainable Industrial Growth,” Mr. Ahi said the planned tax waiver is designed to make agro-processing equipment more affordable for local producers while encouraging private investment in value addition.
“These incentives are vital for building investor confidence, improving access to modern technology, and supporting the government’s agenda of agro-industrialisation,” he said.
He explained that the policy forms part of government’s broader commitment to retool and strengthen the local manufacturing sector to promote job creation and reduce poverty.
Mr. Ahi emphasized that inclusive agricultural policies were essential to ensure women, young people, and persons with disabilities actively participate in the sector’s transformation.
Highlighting ongoing interventions, the Deputy Minister said the Rural Enterprise Programme, supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), had empowered the GRATIS Foundation to locally design, manufacture, and repair agro-processing machines.
This initiative, he noted, reduces dependence on imported equipment while promoting local content and innovation.
“Empowering GRATIS is a strategic step to boost Ghana’s agro-industrialisation drive. It will help create jobs, stimulate innovation, and position local businesses as key players in the national value chain,” Mr. Ahi added.
The agribusiness dialogue also identified regional priority areas to drive growth, including improving agricultural productivity for entrepreneurship, supporting commercial seed incubation ventures, and expanding market access for smallholder farmers.
Mr. Joseph Addae Akwaboah, Bono Regional Minister, commended the Ministry for facilitating the engagement, describing the region as one of Ghana’s “agricultural powerhouses.”
He noted that the Bono Region’s strong cashew and poultry sectors could significantly contribute to national growth if adequately equipped with modern processing technology.
“Our farmers need the right machinery and support systems to harness the full potential of these sectors and turn agriculture into real wealth for the people,” Mr. Akwaboah said.
The dialogue forms part of a nationwide stakeholder consultation series aimed at shaping a comprehensive, long-term agribusiness development plan that promotes inclusivity, resilience, and sustainable industrial growth across Ghana’s agricultural value chain.
