Accra: The government aims to attract $1.2 billion in new investments to create 150,000 jobs in the garment and textiles industry by 2030. It also plans to revive cotton cultivation across 50,000 hectares to support local raw material supply. Mr. Samson Ahi, Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, disclosed this at a stakeholder validation workshop on the draft Textiles and Garments Manufacturing Policy in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the policy would provide a coherent and competitive framework to attract investment, enhance productivity, and position Ghana as a sourcing hub for ethical and sustainable apparel manufacturing. Mr. Ahi elaborated on the draft policy, which proposes interventions such as establishing five world-class industrial parks and creating dedicated funds for cotton development and textile upgradation. Additionally, the policy aims to offer fiscal incentives and concessional tariffs for manufacturers.
Mr. Ahi described the sector as a cultural emblem and strategic anchor of the Government's Industrialisation Agenda. He highlighted its potential to generate employment, especially for women and youth, while boosting export diversification and sustainable development. He noted that the garment export sub-sector is growing steadily but has not yet reached its full potential amid challenges such as increasing imports of finished garments and the erosion of domestic production capacity.
He encouraged stakeholders to help revitalise Ghana's textile legacy and unlock the full potential of the garments sector. Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, also called on stakeholders to take ownership of the policy. He urged them to contribute constructively, ensuring the policy is robust and accommodates private sector interests.
