Gov't assures beverage industry of zero duties on imports of equipment

A Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Robert Ahomka-Lindsay has called on Small and Medium Beverage Enterprises to take advantage of the opportunities in the beverage industry for the industrial transformation of Ghana.

Speaking at the 3rd Edition of the Ghana Beverage Awards Mr. Ahomka-Lindsay lauded the organizers of the awards, Global Media Alliance for initiating the event under the theme ‘Drink Ghana, Inspiring Excellence in Ghana’s Beverage Industry’ as part of the “See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, Feel Ghana” campaign.

“This is a huge opportunity for Small and Medium Beverage Enterprises to provide entries with different flavours and new types of beverages for consumption. If we look at the huge number of drinks including fruit juice the country imports into the market, we can see the clear opportunities for the beverage industry.” he said.

Mr. Ahomka-Lindsay said the Ministry of Trade and Industry is prepared to support Small and Medium beverage Enterprises with incentives such as zero duty on all equipment for manufacturing beverages, subsidization percentage for investments and a duty-free on raw materials for manufacturers with difficulty acquiring raw materials under the 1 District 1 Factory government initiative.

He stressed on the need to encourage Small and Medium beverage companies in the industry because of the benefits they can bring to Ghana’s development.

“They can do a lot for Ghana by offering wealth and job opportunities locally and internationally. Everything starts with a first step,” he said.

He concluded by congratulating the winners for the categories and all players in the beverage industry present.