Ghana has abolished the 20% excise duty on fruit juice production

The decision to abolish the tax burden is aimed at stimulating the agro-processing sector and supporting producers in Ghana. According to estimates by fruit producer and processor associations from Ekumfi and Asebu, this measure will help stabilize the situation for local enterprises, which have recently faced rising production costs and high competition. The authorities expect that the abolition of the excise tax will strengthen the position of import substitution and allow for annual savings of more than 200 million USD, reducing the import of finished products.

Farmers specializing in the cultivation of pineapples, papayas, oranges, lemons, passion fruit, ginger, and coconuts expect that support for processing plants will ensure stable demand for the harvest. According to industry association forecasts, the development of the processing sector has the potential to create between 60,000 and 150,000 new jobs in fields such as agriculture, logistics, packaging, and marketing. As an example of the region's export potential, the company Ekumfi Fruits and Juices Limited is cited, whose products are featured on the Walmart.com platform.

To achieve the goals of transforming Ghana into a key hub for the production of natural fruit beverages in West Africa, agribusiness representatives point to the need for further infrastructure development. In particular, this refers to expanding the area under crop planting and improving irrigation systems. If these measures are implemented, experts forecast an increase in export revenue to 500 million USD per year. The associations expressed their gratitude to the country's government, in particular to President John Dramani Mahama and Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, confirming their readiness to work together on improving product quality standards.