Ghana Waives Import Duty on Agri-Processing Machinery to Boost Local Industry
In a significant move aimed at revitalizing Ghana’s agricultural sector, President John Dramani Mahama has announced the immediate removal of import duties on agricultural processing machinery. This strategic decision, unveiled at the inaugural National Agribusiness Dialogue held in Accra on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, seeks to substantially lower operational costs for businesses and accelerate crucial investments in local agri-processing capabilities across the nation.
Catalyzing Efficiency and Domestic Capacity
The waiver is specifically designed to enhance accessibility to modern technology, thereby boosting efficiency throughout the entire agricultural value chain and fostering greater private sector participation. President Mahama emphasized the short-term benefits, stating, “In the short term, import duties on agri-processing machinery will be waived to reduce costs and incentivise local processing. This will enhance efficiency, improve technology uptake and stimulate private sector investment.” This initiative is expected to directly impact agri-businesses by making advanced equipment more affordable, encouraging technology adoption, and ultimately improving productivity and quality of processed goods.
Beyond immediate cost reductions, the government’s vision extends to a comprehensive, long-term strategy. The President highlighted plans to bolster Ghana’s domestic capacity for fabricating and supplying agri-processing equipment. This will be achieved through targeted support for local manufacturing industries, aiming to create a self-sustaining ecosystem for agricultural technology. This dual approach signifies a commitment not only to immediate growth but also to building a resilient, homegrown foundation for agricultural innovation and industrialization within the African tech context.
This policy marks a pivotal step towards transforming Ghana’s agriculture, a cornerstone of its economy. By reducing barriers to modern technology and simultaneously nurturing local manufacturing, the government aims to create a vibrant and efficient agri-processing sector. This initiative is set to unlock significant private sector investment, cultivate innovation, and ultimately contribute to a more robust, value-added agricultural economy, ensuring food security and economic growth for the nation.
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