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Keta Businesses Set for Revenue Boost as Valentine’s Day Preparations Hit High Gear
business|Yesterday

Keta Businesses Set for Revenue Boost as Valentine’s Day Preparations Hit High Gear

Businesses in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region are gearing up for a significant economic windfall as Valentine’s Day approaches. Local entrepreneurs and service providers have reported a noticeable uptick in commercial activity, with expectations of a major revenue surge during the festive period. This anticipation is fueled by a collective effort across various sectors to capitalize on the season of love, transforming the municipality into a hub of commercial and social engagement. Retailers in Keta have been at the forefront of this trend, stocking up on seasonal favorites such as chocolates, flowers, and red-themed apparel. Madam Regina Deladem Ametsime, a local boutique owner, highlighted that businesses are not just selling goods but are curating experiences. Restaurants and hospitality services are rolling out specialized packages designed to attract both local couples and visitors. These offerings often include discounted meals and tailored entertainment options, creating a competitive yet vibrant market environment within the municipality. The economic impact extends beyond traditional retail, benefiting a wide array of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Graphic designers, bakers, and photographers are reporting increased patronage as individuals and organizations seek custom gifts and professional services to commemorate the day. Furthermore, Keta's natural landmarks, particularly the Keta Lagoon, are expected to serve as major attractions for tourists and revelers. This influx of visitors is projected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, supporting vendors and service providers who are organizing various entertainment events scheduled for February 14. This surge in activity underscores the resilience and creativity of local entrepreneurs in Keta. By leveraging the cultural significance of Valentine’s Day, these businesses are not only boosting their individual bottom lines but are also contributing to the broader economic vitality of the Volta Region. As preparations reach their peak, the optimism among the business community remains high, signaling a successful start to the year's festive calendar for the municipality.

Ghana’s Business Outlook 2026: Hospitality Sector Faces Utility Crisis While Aviation and Agribusiness Eye Expansion
business|Yesterday

Ghana’s Business Outlook 2026: Hospitality Sector Faces Utility Crisis While Aviation and Agribusiness Eye Expansion

The Ghanaian business landscape in early 2026 is navigating a complex mix of operational hurdles and strategic growth opportunities. While the hospitality industry is sounding alarms over rising costs, the aviation and agribusiness sectors are positioning themselves for international expansion and infrastructure modernization. These developments highlight a critical juncture for the national economy, where the ease of doing business remains a primary concern for local operators even as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a regional hub for trade and tourism. At the forefront of domestic challenges, the Ghana Progressive Hotels Association (GHAPROHA) has expressed grave concerns regarding escalating utility tariffs and inconsistent service delivery. During the association’s first meeting of 2026, President Emmanuel Geadda Asando urged the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to intervene with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Water Company. Highlighting a particular crisis in the Tema Metropolis, Asando noted that hoteliers are being forced to rely on expensive water tankers and private generators to maintain operations. Despite the government's removal of the COVID-19 Levy, the association criticized the persistent burden of additional state levies, warning that high operational costs could deter investment and stifle the tourism sector. In contrast to the struggles in hospitality, the aviation sector is moving forward with ambitious plans to enhance connectivity and infrastructure. At the 5th AviationGhana Breakfast Meeting held in February 2026, stakeholders emphasized the importance of aligning national policies with ECOWAS directives to boost regional competitiveness. Yvonne Nana Afriyiye Opare detailed upcoming infrastructure upgrades at Kotoka International Airport, including a new concourse designed to improve travel efficiency. Kamil Al-Awadhi from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) underscored that sustainable growth in the sector depends on a unified regulatory approach that fosters a more conducive environment for airlines and travel consultants. Parallel to these infrastructure efforts, the agribusiness sector is preparing to scale its international footprint through the second Canada-Africa Agribusiness Summit (CAAS), scheduled for July 15–16, 2026, in Saskatoon. This summit aims to bridge trade gaps between Canadian and African markets, aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. With over 500 participants expected, the event will focus on sustainable food systems and investment partnerships. As Ghana seeks to balance the high cost of local operations with these global trade opportunities, the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether policy interventions can alleviate the pressures on domestic businesses while sustaining the momentum in aviation and international trade.

Ghana’s 2025 Economic Performance: Record Gold Output and SIC Insurance’s GH¢107.6m Claims Payout
business|Yesterday

Ghana’s 2025 Economic Performance: Record Gold Output and SIC Insurance’s GH¢107.6m Claims Payout

Ghana’s business landscape witnessed significant milestones in 2025, marked by record-breaking gold production and a demonstration of financial resilience within the insurance sector. The nation achieved a historic gold output of 6 million ounces, while SIC Insurance PLC, the country’s leading non-life insurer, disbursed GH¢107.6 million in claims. These developments reflect a period of robust operational growth across the extractives and financial services industries, even as stakeholders navigate emerging fiscal reforms and low market penetration challenges. In the mining sector, the record 6 million ounces of gold was driven by a surge in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), which contributed 3.1 million ounces, slightly edging out the 2.9 million ounces produced by large-scale mines. According to the Ghana Chamber of Mines, this performance was bolstered by high bullion prices and recent regulatory reforms that encouraged official sales. However, the industry remains cautious about 2026. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Chamber of Mines, expressed concern that a proposed sliding-scale royalty system could increase the financial burden on mining firms, potentially putting the 2026 target of 6.5 million ounces at risk. Simultaneously, the financial sector saw SIC Insurance PLC reinforce its market leadership by meeting significant policyholder obligations. Managing Director James Agyenim-Boateng attributed the GH¢107.6 million payout to the company’s strong liquidity and robust reinsurance arrangements. Beyond claims, the insurer’s financial health was reflected in the stock market, where its share price surged by 344% to close the year at GH¢1.20. Following this performance, the company approved dividend payouts during its 18th Annual General Meeting, signaling confidence to its shareholders. Looking ahead, both sectors are focusing on sustainability and expansion. While the mining industry calls for fiscal stability to protect future projects, SIC Insurance is turning to digital transformation to address Ghana’s low insurance penetration, which remains below 2%. By prioritizing dependable service and modernizing operations, the insurer aims to expand the safety net for Ghanaian businesses and individuals. Collectively, these narratives portray a Ghanaian economy that is scaling new heights while proactively preparing for the regulatory and structural shifts of 2026.

News

Osei Kwame Despite Dismisses Social Media Rumors Linking Him to KIA Cocaine Bust
business|Yesterday

Osei Kwame Despite Dismisses Social Media Rumors Linking Him to KIA Cocaine Bust

Renowned Ghanaian businessman Osei Kwame Despite has officially addressed and dismissed viral social media rumors linking him to a recent drug trafficking bust conducted by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at Kotoka International Airport (KIA). The speculation, which gained significant traction on digital platforms on February 12, 2026, suggested that the Despite Group chairman was the unnamed high-profile figure behind a popular food brand reportedly involved in a cocaine smuggling attempt. However, both the businessman and law enforcement authorities have since moved to clarify the situation, putting an end to the unfounded allegations that had briefly dominated online discourse. The rumors began circulating following reports that a manager of a well-known Ghanaian packaged food brand had been remanded after being intercepted by NACOC officials at the airport. Due to the vague description of the 'popular brand' in initial reports, social media users began speculating on various business moguls, eventually pointing toward Osei Kwame Despite. In a lighthearted and indirect response captured in a social media video, Despite was seen attending a funeral where he humorously addressed the claims. 'I've been arrested and you didn't tell me,' he remarked to those around him, signaling that he was going about his normal business completely unaware of the supposed legal troubles. Further solidifying the businessman's stance, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) provided official clarification regarding the identity of the suspects. The Deputy Director-General of NACOC stated that the individuals currently in custody for the cocaine bust are not connected to the established food brands that had been inaccurately implicated by the public. This intervention by the Commission was crucial in de-escalating the misinformation that threatened the reputation of several Ghanaian businesses. The incident underscores the speed at which misinformation can spread in the digital era, often unfairly targeting prominent figures before official facts are fully established by the relevant authorities.

Ghana Reduces Cocoa Farmgate Price by 28% as Government Absorbs $150 Million in COCOBOD Losses
business|Yesterday

Ghana Reduces Cocoa Farmgate Price by 28% as Government Absorbs $150 Million in COCOBOD Losses

The Government of Ghana has announced a 28% reduction in the cocoa farmgate price, marking the first such decrease since 2020. This decision comes in response to a significant decline in global cocoa prices and the accumulation of outstanding payment arrears to farmers. To mitigate the impact of this shift and address liquidity challenges within the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), the Cabinet has directed the immediate purchase of cocoa beans and the urgent settlement of debts owed to farmers to restore confidence in the sector. Under the new directive, the government has committed to absorbing approximately $150 million (roughly GHS 1.6 billion) in losses expected by COCOBOD. This fiscal intervention specifically covers 50,000 metric tonnes of cocoa beans that were already supplied at the previous, higher rate of over $5,200 per tonne. Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko confirmed that despite the new lower farmgate rate, farmers who have already supplied beans will be paid at the previously agreed-upon price, representing a substantial state commitment to maintaining stability within the agricultural sector. Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson has further reassured stakeholders that these measures are part of a broader suite of ongoing reforms aimed at safeguarding farmers' interests and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the cocoa industry. During government briefings, officials emphasized that the administration is tackling structural challenges through revised producer prices, improved financing models, and a renewed focus on local value addition and enhanced processing. These initiatives are designed to improve returns for rural cocoa farmers, who remain a cornerstone of Ghana’s export earnings and rural livelihoods. While the specific funding sources for these payments have raised questions given COCOBOD’s current liquidity constraints, the government’s decision to absorb massive losses reflects the strategic priority placed on the cocoa value chain. As Ghana navigates volatile global market conditions, the focus remains on balancing fiscal responsibility with the necessity of protecting the economic backbone of the country. The success of these reforms will depend on the government's ability to implement structural changes that shield farmers from future global price shocks while maintaining the industry's competitiveness.

UniMAC Reforms Internship and Employability Framework to Enhance Student Career Readiness
business|2 days ago

UniMAC Reforms Internship and Employability Framework to Enhance Student Career Readiness

The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) has launched a strategic initiative to overhaul its internship and employability structures. Led by the External Affairs Office, this reform aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Following a high-level strategic meeting with the university's Internship Coordinator, Ms. Benedicta Nyame, the institution is prioritizing the alignment of student programs with a newly established Industrial Attachment Policy. This move is designed to ensure that graduates are better prepared for the evolving demands of the Ghanaian job market, providing a more seamless transition from the classroom to the boardroom. Central to these reforms is the work of the Internship and Employability Committee, which is tasked with streamlining the coordination of student placements across various industries. During recent deliberations, Ms. Nyame emphasized the critical need for a deeper institutional understanding of the university’s policy framework. By standardizing the internship process, UniMAC seeks to move away from ad-hoc arrangements and toward a more structured system that benefits both students and partner organizations. This includes a strategic push to compile a comprehensive database of credible organizations that offer high-quality, structured internship experiences, ensuring that students gain relevant, hands-on skills during their placements. This move comes at a time when graduate employability remains a significant concern for higher education institutions and the business community in Ghana. By formalizing its industrial attachment processes, UniMAC is positioning itself as a proactive leader in career development and industry partnership. The initiative is expected to provide students with more reliable pathways to professional experience while ensuring that external partners can engage with a talent pool that is prepared to contribute meaningfully to their operations. As the External Affairs Office continues to implement these reforms, the focus will remain on expanding corporate partnerships and fostering a culture of career readiness throughout the university community.

GUTA Reaffirms Opposition to Marine Cargo Act, Citing Lack of Consent and Competitive Concerns
business|2 days ago

GUTA Reaffirms Opposition to Marine Cargo Act, Citing Lack of Consent and Competitive Concerns

The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has reiterated its firm opposition to the Marine Cargo Act, which mandates that importers secure local insurance for their goods. Former GUTA President Joseph Obeng has clarified that the association never officially consented to the implementation of this legislation, pointing to significant unresolved issues that continue to burden the business community. While the policy is strategically intended to strengthen Ghana's local insurance sector by retaining capital within the country, trade leaders argue that the mandatory nature of the law overrides the fundamental principles of a free and competitive market. Obeng’s objections center on the imposition of insurance services on businesses without their agreement or adequate consultation. He contends that rather than relying on legislative mandates to secure patronage, local insurers should focus on enhancing their service delivery and pricing structures to become naturally competitive against international alternatives. The former GUTA president also expressed frustration over the enforcement of penalties for non-compliance, viewing them as an unnecessary financial strain on importers. He emphasized that the policy, as it stands, forces businesses to utilize specific local services regardless of whether those services offer the best value or comprehensive coverage for their cargo. The standoff highlights a persistent gap in communication between government authorities and key stakeholders in the trade sector. For GUTA to endorse the Act, Obeng insists on a more comprehensive engagement process that genuinely addresses the specific grievances and operational realities of importers. Until these structural concerns are resolved, the association maintains that the Act remains an unwelcome imposition on the trading community. This conflict reflects a broader challenge within the Ghanaian economy: finding the right balance between protective legislation designed to grow local industries and the operational freedom required by the private sector to thrive.

Ghana's 2026 Business Outlook: GRA Sets New VAT Standards as GoldBod Tightens Industry Compliance
business|2 days ago

Ghana's 2026 Business Outlook: GRA Sets New VAT Standards as GoldBod Tightens Industry Compliance

Ghana's business landscape is set for significant regulatory shifts in early 2026 as state agencies move to tighten fiscal oversight and industry compliance. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) have announced major updates concerning Value Added Tax (VAT) implementation and gold sector operational standards. These developments signify a concerted effort by the government to streamline revenue collection and ensure that key industries adhere to the legal frameworks governing their operations. Starting January 1, 2026, a new 20% VAT rate will come into effect, as clarified by the GRA. This revised rate integrates a 15% standard VAT with a 2.5% National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) and a 2.5% Education Trust Fund (GETFund) Levy. Commissioner-General Anthony Sarpong highlighted that this restructuring is designed to simplify the tax system and addresses the previous cascading tax issue by allowing businesses to claim input tax credits on these levies. To further support small enterprises, the VAT registration threshold will be significantly raised from GH₵200,000 to GH₵750,000, reducing the administrative burden on smaller businesses. Simultaneously, the gold industry is facing increased scrutiny under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025. GoldBod has officially summoned six licensed gold service providers to its Accra head office for a mandatory compliance assessment scheduled for February 12, 2026. This exercise, mandated under section 43 of the Act, is a routine but critical measure to verify that trading entities are following financial and operational regulations. The Board has underscored that these checks are vital for enforcing transparency and accountability, part of a broader national strategy to formalize the gold industry and eliminate illicit practices. These dual initiatives represent a push toward meeting ambitious national revenue targets and enhancing the integrity of Ghana's primary commodities market. While the GRA focuses on implementing more efficient invoicing systems and broadening the tax base through compliance, GoldBod is ensuring that the lucrative gold sector operates within a clear, regulated framework. For businesses operating in Ghana, 2026 will be a year defined by adaptation to these new standards, which aim to create a more predictable and transparent environment for both local and international investors.

Ghana’s Cocoa Processing Company Targets African Market Dominance via AfCFTA
business|2 days ago

Ghana’s Cocoa Processing Company Targets African Market Dominance via AfCFTA

The Cocoa Processing Company (CPC) has announced an ambitious strategic expansion plan to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to deepen its market presence across the continent. Marking its 60th anniversary, the company aims to transform into Africa’s primary chocolate production hub, utilizing the trade agreement to remove barriers and facilitate easier access to emerging markets. According to Sales and Marketing Manager Nana Agyemang Ansong, this move is part of a broader vision to enhance the value chain of Ghana’s cocoa industry and solidify the company's status as a leader in high-quality cocoa products. Currently, CPC has successfully established a footprint in several West African countries, including Togo, Nigeria, and Benin. The company’s flagship 'Golden Tree' chocolate brand has already garnered international acclaim for its premium quality, providing a strong foundation for further expansion. As demand for cocoa-based products rises across the continent, CPC is focusing on increasing production capacity to meet the needs of a diverse African consumer base. Ansong emphasized that the company’s strategy involves not just exporting raw cocoa materials, but delivering finished, value-added products that compete globally. On the domestic front, the company is witnessing a significant surge in cocoa consumption among Ghanaians. Per capita consumption has reportedly doubled from 0.5 kilograms to 1 kilogram, with the company setting a target to reach 2 kilograms per person in the near future. This domestic growth strategy is being synchronized with preparations for the 2026 National Chocolate Day, which serves as a platform to promote the nutritional and economic benefits of cocoa. By fostering a stronger local chocolate culture, CPC believes it can build the necessary scale to sustain its aggressive continental expansion. As the CPC looks toward the future, its reliance on the AfCFTA framework represents a pivotal shift for Ghana’s manufacturing sector. By transitioning from a traditional exporter of raw beans to a sophisticated processor of confectionery, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa's industrialization efforts. Success in this venture would not only boost CPC’s revenue but also provide a template for other Ghanaian enterprises looking to benefit from the continent's unified market, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation within the local cocoa value chain.

ECG Ashanti West Recovers GH¢4.39m in Major Crackdown on Illegal Power Connections
business|2 days ago

ECG Ashanti West Recovers GH¢4.39m in Major Crackdown on Illegal Power Connections

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in the Ashanti West Region has successfully recovered GH¢4,388,264.59 from customers engaged in illegal power connections during the 2025 operational year. This recovery constitutes a significant portion of the GH¢5,812,727.06 total surcharges levied against offenders following extensive field inspections. The investigations revealed that approximately 3,018,561.10 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity had been consumed unlawfully, highlighting the scale of revenue leakage facing the utility provider in the region. During the monitoring exercise, ECG technical teams identified several sophisticated methods of power theft, including meter tampering, direct connections, and meter bypasses across various districts in Ashanti West. Mr. George Amoah, the Regional General Manager, explained that these illegal activities contribute heavily to the company's commercial losses. He emphasized that recovering these funds is critical for the sustainability of the electricity supply chain, as it ensures the company has the necessary revenue to maintain infrastructure and pay its own power suppliers. Beyond the financial implications, the ECG management has issued a stern warning regarding the safety hazards and legal consequences of power theft. Mr. Amoah noted that illegal connections pose severe risks of fire and electrocution to both the offenders and the general public. He reminded customers that power theft is a prosecutable offense under Ghanaian law and that the company is prepared to take legal action against perpetrators. Moving forward, the ECG plans to intensify its monitoring efforts and is urging the public to report suspicious activities or suspected cases of illegal connections to help safeguard the nation's power resources.

The Evolving Logic of African Mining: How Gold and Copper are Redefining Investment Strategies
business|11th February

The Evolving Logic of African Mining: How Gold and Copper are Redefining Investment Strategies

The global mining sector is witnessing a fundamental shift in investment logic, primarily driven by the recent performance of gold and the rising strategic importance of copper. Gold markets reached historic milestones, at one point surpassing the $4,000 mark as economic instability and a search for safe-haven assets fueled investor demand. A significant catalyst for this trend has been the aggressive diversification of reserves by central banks, particularly in emerging markets. Between 2022 and 2024, the share of gold in central bank reserves globally rose from 14% to over 18%, providing a robust price floor despite recent market retreats and the strong performance of equities. This influx of capital has left major gold producers with substantial cash reserves, sparking a new era of strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Mining giants are increasingly prioritizing M&A over organic growth to secure quicker returns and mitigate the regulatory risks associated with developing new, unproven projects. High-profile deals, such as the merger between Newmont and Newcrest, exemplify this trend toward consolidation. By acquiring established assets, companies can immediately leverage high commodity prices while avoiding the long lead times and geological uncertainties of traditional prospecting. Simultaneously, the global transition to renewable energy is elevating copper to a position of equal strategic importance alongside gold. Copper is vital for green energy infrastructure, and its long-term demand outlook has prompted many traditional gold miners to aggressively pursue copper projects. This convergence of precious and industrial metals suggests a more integrated approach to resource management, where mining companies diversify their portfolios to include the critical minerals necessary for the energy transition. For investors, this shift represents a conviction-driven landscape where asset development is tied directly to global sustainability goals. Africa remains at the heart of this mining evolution, but the continent is being urged to redefine its role from a raw material exporter to a value-added partner. There is a growing emphasis on value retention through local beneficiation and the development of supporting infrastructure. By moving beyond the supply of raw ores and focusing on domestic processing, African nations can ensure that their vast mineral wealth translates into sustainable economic growth. This period of market restructuring offers a strategic opportunity for the continent to secure its position as a leader in the global energy transition while fostering long-term industrial resilience.

Bank of Ghana Bars Long Currency Positions as Revised Directive Tightens Foreign Exchange Reporting
business|11th February

Bank of Ghana Bars Long Currency Positions as Revised Directive Tightens Foreign Exchange Reporting

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued a revised directive on Net Open Position (NOP) limits, significantly tightening the regulations governing how commercial banks manage their foreign currency exposures. Under the new rules, banks are strictly prohibited from holding long positions in major foreign currencies, including the British pound and the euro. The central bank has set the Single Currency Position limit for each individual currency to range from 0% to -10% of a bank's Net Own Funds (NOF), effectively mandating that positions at the close of business must be either squared or held in a short position. To ensure strict adherence to these limits, authorized dealer banks must now reconcile daily changes in their NOP with their actual net foreign exchange trades. This calculation is defined as the total foreign exchange purchases minus total sales for the day. Notably, the directive specifies that contingent liabilities are to be excluded from these daily reconciliations. Furthermore, in transactions involving partial margins in foreign currencies, the regulator has clarified that only the net exposure will be accounted for in the NOP computation, providing a standardized framework for reporting complex currency dealings. The Bank of Ghana has emphasized the criticality of timely and accurate reporting to maintain market transparency and financial stability. All banks are required to submit their Daily Bank Returns (DBK) by 10:00 a.m. on the following business day. The central bank has issued a stern warning that any inaccurate, incomplete, or late submissions will attract severe sanctions under the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930) and other relevant regulatory frameworks. This move is widely seen as an effort to curb speculative activities and ensure greater oversight within the national foreign exchange market.

GRA Launches Special Enforcement Unit to Curb VAT Non-Compliance and Reassures Traders on Tax Reforms
business|11th February

GRA Launches Special Enforcement Unit to Curb VAT Non-Compliance and Reassures Traders on Tax Reforms

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has officially launched a new Compliance and Enforcement unit within its Domestic Tax Revenue Division to address widespread irregularities in Value Added Tax (VAT) collection. Recent assessments by the authority revealed a staggering 60% of businesses are either failing to remit VAT entirely or are doing so incorrectly. Commissioner General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong emphasized the urgency of this initiative, noting that a significant number of businesses collect VAT from customers but fail to transfer those funds to the state, leading to substantial revenue losses for the country. The newly formed 26-member team is tasked with improving VAT payment adherence and closing the collection gap by the end of the current year. Beyond enforcement, the unit is mandated to safeguard taxpayer rights and promote a culture of voluntary compliance. Dr. Martin Yambourigya, Commissioner for Domestic Tax Revenue, underscored the importance of collaboration between the GRA and the business community, stressing that effective VAT application is a cornerstone for enhancing the nation's overall revenue mobilization. Simultaneously, the GRA is addressing concerns from the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Traders Association regarding the VAT Act, 2025. Traders had expressed fears that the shift from a 4% flat rate to a 20% standard VAT would lead to a spike in consumer prices. However, the GRA dismissed these claims, clarifying that under the new system, input VAT is fully deductible. Using illustrative examples, the authority demonstrated that total costs to consumers should remain consistent or potentially even decrease, as the previous flat rate did not allow for such deductions. The GRA has attributed any observed price increases during this period to transitional errors rather than the policy itself. To ensure a smooth transition, the authority announced plans to provide dedicated assistance to traders as they adapt to the new regulatory framework. By combining rigorous enforcement against defaulters with educational support for compliant businesses, the GRA aims to create a more transparent and efficient tax environment that supports Ghana’s economic stability.

Ghana’s Cocoa Sector Faces Funding Crisis as COCOBOD Owes Buyers Over $185 Million
business|11th February

Ghana’s Cocoa Sector Faces Funding Crisis as COCOBOD Owes Buyers Over $185 Million

The Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association (LBCs) has raised an alarm over a deepening financial crisis in Ghana’s cocoa sector, revealing that the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) owes its members approximately $185 million in arrears for the last two seasons. Samuel Adimado, President of the Association, disclosed that total debts owed to LBCs range between GH¢10 billion and GH¢11 billion. This massive backlog has created a liquidity crunch that is trickling down to the very foundation of the industry, leaving farmers without payment for months and straining the relationship between buyers and producers. The crisis has reached a point where some LBCs owe more to commercial banks than they do to the farmers they source from. For the past seven years, LBCs have sustained the cocoa trade by pre-financing purchases through high-interest loans from commercial banks. However, delayed reimbursements from COCOBOD, which sometimes take up to nine months, have left many LBCs in a precarious position. Adimado clarified that the public perception—and the growing anger among farmers—that LBCs are intentionally withholding funds is inaccurate. Instead, the buyers are caught in a cycle of debt, waiting for the regulator to release funds to settle both their mounting bank obligations and outstanding payments to the farmers who operate on a trust-based system with purchasing clerks. A significant driver of this instability is a shift in the industry's funding structure. The traditional syndicated loan model, which historically provided more predictable liquidity, has transitioned toward a trader-based system. Under this new arrangement, LBCs do not receive upfront funding from COCOBOD but instead depend on external traders. This structural change has exacerbated payment delays, as the timing of funds often fails to align with the peak harvest periods when cash is most needed on the ground. Consequently, even when the government announces increases in producer prices—such as the recent hike to GH¢3,625 per bag—farmers remain unable to access the cash value of their labor. The human cost of these systemic failures is particularly evident in regions like Kadjebi and the Jasikan Municipality, where farmers report significant financial hardship. Many have delivered their beans months ago without receiving compensation, leading to a breakdown in the traditional trust between farmers and purchasing clerks. This frustration has birthed accusations that LBCs are effectively "stealing" the cocoa, a sentiment that Adimado warns is driving farmers away and could compromise the integrity of the entire supply chain. The lack of immediate payment is creating a ripple effect of poverty across rural communities that rely almost exclusively on cocoa revenue. In response to the escalating tension, the Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association is seeking urgent intervention from the Ministry of Finance to resolve the payment deadlock. While Adimado emphasized that the association is not in direct conflict with COCOBOD, he stressed the need for a collaborative resolution to stabilize the cocoa economy. The goal of ongoing discussions is to establish a more sustainable funding mechanism that ensures prompt payments to farmers and protects the livelihoods of all stakeholders in Ghana’s vital cocoa industry.

Ghana's Economic Shift: 24-Hour Economy Bill Passes Amid Local Farming Crisis and Global Retail Restructuring
business|10th February

Ghana's Economic Shift: 24-Hour Economy Bill Passes Amid Local Farming Crisis and Global Retail Restructuring

Ghana’s economic landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the parliamentary passage of the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, 2025. This landmark legislation has been strongly commended by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), which views it as a pivotal step toward enhancing national productivity and fostering an export-led economy. AGI President Kofi Nsiah Poku highlighted the bill's potential to drive job creation and export diversification. While there are concerns regarding short-term government revenue reductions due to tax incentives, the AGI maintains that the long-term gains in local production outweigh these costs. The association has urged the government to integrate existing projects like the One District, One Factory initiative into this new framework to maximize industrial output. Despite this legislative optimism, the agricultural sector faces immediate challenges as maize farmers in the Atebubu/Amantin Municipality report a devastating drop in commodity prices. The price of a bag of maize has reportedly plummeted from GH¢1,200 to GH¢400, a decline that has left many farmers burdened with debt and threatens the viability of future production. Dickson Williams Agyei, chairman of the local farmers' association, has called for urgent government intervention. The farmers are seeking support through subsidized input costs and improved access to seedlings, while also urging the state to explore export opportunities to stabilize prices and prevent potential food shortages in the region. On the international stage, the business environment remains volatile as major corporations restructure to meet changing consumer demands. The U.S. retailer Target has announced the cutting of approximately 500 jobs across its regional offices and distribution centers. Under the leadership of new CEO Michael Fiddelke, the company aims to reallocate resources to enhance the in-store customer experience and optimize staffing hours. This move follows previous significant job cuts and reflects a broader trend of retail giants adjusting their operations in response to shifting consumer spending habits and external social pressures. These combined developments highlight a complex global and local economic environment. For Ghana, the success of the 24-Hour Economy will depend not only on industrial policy but also on the government's ability to protect its agricultural base from extreme price volatility. As the country moves toward a more continuous production cycle, the integration of fiscal incentives with practical support for local producers will be essential for sustainable growth. Meanwhile, the restructuring seen in global retail serves as a reminder of the constant need for operational agility in an increasingly unpredictable market.

Daily Briefs

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    Hospital Refusal Crisis, Cocoa Price Cut & Record Gold Output

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  • 2

    Massive Drug Bust, Food Crisis & New 20% VAT Rate

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  • 3

    Cocoa Debt Crisis, Real Estate Scam & Police Probe

    24 stories
  • 4

    COCOBOD Debt Crisis, Diplomat Recalled & NCD Care Boost

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    NDC Envoy Recalled, New Revenue Targets & Cedi Defense

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