Gov’t targets textiles, agribusiness and auto components in investment push

Ghana is targeting textiles, agribusiness and component manufacturing as it seeks to attract investors with reforms that go beyond its reputation for political stability.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA), Simon Madjie, says the country’s investment pitch now centres on policy changes, credible leadership and an environment where businesses can grow.

Speaking recently on JoyNews’ PM Express Business Edition, he pointed to sector policies at the Ministry of Trade as evidence of that approach.

“There’s a new textiles policy, there is an agribusiness policy, you have one on component manufacturing.”

Madjie said these initiatives formed part of efforts to position Ghana as a destination where investors could build and sustain profitable businesses.

“All of these are geared towards making us that place where, when people think about Ghana, they think about a place to thrive, a place to do business, and a place to prosper.”

His comments followed a question from host George Wiafe about growing competition for investment in West Africa. Wiafe asked whether Ghana’s traditional emphasis on peace and market size remained sufficient as neighbouring countries strengthened their appeal.

Madjie acknowledged the competition but argued that Ghana’s proposition had evolved.

“Ghana is not just selling political stability. Ghana is selling reforms.”

He said changes to tax and customs laws were part of a broader effort to create prosperity for both investors and Ghanaians.

For Madjie, attracting investment requires more than natural advantages. It also demands policies that help businesses expand over time.

“Because you need reforms to keep growing your investment here.”

He also placed credibility at the centre of Ghana’s appeal. He said investors needed confidence in leadership across government, from the presidency and ministries to agencies and local authorities.

Madjie presented this as a long-term proposition, with sector policies and institutional leadership working together to support business growth.

“So we know we have natural advantages, but we’ve moved beyond that to creating an environment where businesses can actually thrive and prosper.”