Ghana’s garment and apparel sector is set for a major boost following a new strategic partnership between the Ministry of Trade and Industry and TradeMark Africa aimed at strengthening the country’s textile value chain and expanding export opportunities.
The collaboration seeks to position Ghana as a competitive hub for garment production in West Africa by improving production capacity, enhancing compliance with international standards, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the industry.
Focus on Industrialisation and Value Addition
Officials say the partnership aligns with government’s broader industrialisation agenda, which prioritises value addition and job creation under initiatives such as the One District, One Factory (1D1F) programme. The garment industry, identified as a high-potential sector, is expected to generate thousands of jobs—particularly for women and youth—while contributing significantly to export earnings.
The Ministry noted that strengthening the garment value chain will help reduce reliance on imported clothing and promote locally manufactured apparel both domestically and internationally.
Capacity Building and Market Access
As part of the partnership, TradeMark Africa will provide technical support, capacity-building programmes, and assistance in meeting global quality and sustainability standards. The initiative will also focus on improving market access through trade facilitation measures and linkages to regional and international buyers.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as timely and essential for reviving Ghana’s once-thriving textile and garment sector.
Enhancing Competitiveness in Regional Trade
The partnership is also expected to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), enabling Ghanaian garment producers to tap into a larger continental market. By improving efficiency and reducing trade barriers, the collaboration aims to increase Ghana’s share of intra-African trade in apparel and textiles.
With renewed commitment from both government and development partners, the initiative marks a significant step toward transforming Ghana’s garment industry into a vibrant, export-driven sector capable of competing on the global stage.
