Ghana's Free Zones Attract $165 Million in Investments, Creating Over 1,600 Jobs

By Ashiadey Dotse The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare, says Ghana’s Free Zones sector recorded investments of $165.29 million, leading to the creation of more than 1,600 jobs, a development she describes as a strong sign of growing investor confidence in the economy. ‎The minister speaking during the government accountability series at the presidency on Wednesday January 21, 2026, said export earnings from companies operating within the Free Zones reached $973.43 million in 2025, nearing the $1 billion mark and surpassing figures recorded in 2024. According to the Minister, the performance reflects government’s commitment to strengthening export-led growth and industrialisation. ‎Madam Ofosu Adjare disclosed that the Ghana Free Zones Authority registered 27 new enterprises under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, a move aimed at boosting intra-African trade and positioning Ghana as a regional trade hub. ‎‎She noted that the Ministry continues to expand Ghana’s presence in international markets through export trade houses, particularly across Africa, with additional facilities in South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States at various stages of completion. ‎‎The Trade Minister also highlighted Ghana’s participation in GITEX Global in Dubai, where local companies showcased ICT-enabled and digital services to attract international buyers and investors. ‎On foreign direct investment, Madam Ofosu Adjare revealed that Ghana has received strong interest from Chinese investors, following trade and investment engagements abroad. She said an 80-member Chinese business delegation recently visited the country, with some investors already acquiring land, forming joint ventures, and entering contractual agreements with local partners. ‎In the fisheries sector, she said the Ghana Standards Authority certified 713 fish export consignments and inspected 218 fishing vessels and establishments to ensure compliance with European Union standards. ‎Madam Ofosu Adjare further assured exporters of government support following challenges posed by the expiry of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the imposition of new tariffs by the United States. She said sustained diplomatic and technical engagements contributed to a three-year extension of AGOA. ‎She reaffirmed government’s commitment to diversifying export markets, adding that discussions are ongoing with China to secure an early harvest agreement under a zero-tariff regime to further boost Ghana’s exports. ‎The Minister emphasized that these efforts are aimed at creating jobs, expanding exports, and driving sustainable economic growth in line with national development priorities.