Doing Business with Ghana Guide by Doing Business Guides

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

Doing Business with Ghana

Accra, capital of Ghana

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

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CONTENTS 10 Ghana overview

Welcome from Marco Forgione, Director General of the Institute of Export & International Trade

Introduction from Lindsey Gilbert-Crouch, Ghana Country Director & Africa Sector Director for Green Economy

Foreword by Ms. Adjoba Kyiamah, Executive Director of the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC)

Why Ghana? 18 About the Department for International Trade (DIT) 20 About UK Export Finance (UKEF) 24 About this Guide 2

Help available for you

30 Why Ghana? 36 37 38 46

• • • • •

Summary Geography Government Economic overview Trade between UK and Ghana

50 Help available for you 55

• Support from the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) • Support from the UK Department for International Trade (DIT) • Support from the Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT)

68 Getting here and advice about your stay 73 74 76 82

• • • • • •

Entry requirements Money Local laws and customs Safety and security Natural disasters Health

90 Sector–speciﬁc opportunities 94

95 96

98 100 102 106 107

• • • • • • • • • • •

Opportunities in Ghana Government tenders Agriculture sector Education sector Financial services sector Free zones Health sector ICT sector Infrastructure sector Oil and gas sector Tourism sector

CONTENTS 112 Preparing to export

116 • Consultation and bespoke research 118 • Start-up considerations 122 • Financial considerations 126 How to do business with Ghana 133 138 142 144

• • • •

Legal considerations Taxation Customs and documentation Shipping your goods

154 Business etiquette, language & culture 156 • • • 158 • • 160 • •

Language Religion Hierarchy Meetings and greetings Hours of business Titles Attire

112

166 What are the challenges? 168 • Challenges when doing business with Ghana

126

154

166

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

CONTENTS 182

Resources 182 Resources 185 What does membership of the Institute of Export & International Trade mean?

200 Market experts contact details

188 IOE&IT qualifications.

214 Useful links

191 The British High Commission Accra

220 Map of Ghana

212 Trade shows

222 Quick facts 194 Supporting organisations contact details

SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS

MARKET EXPERTS

Thank you to our Market Experts

Ghana overview Ghana is a mineral rich West African country, situated between Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and Côte d’Ivoire to the west, with a coastline lying on the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Ghana has experienced strong growth over the most recent decade, with a real annual GDP growth of 0.4% in December 2021. The UK is one of Ghana’s largest foreign investors with strong economic ties. In 2018, UK imports of goods from Ghana increased by 143.7%. In December 2021, imports of goods from the UK to Ghana were valued at £421 million and imports of services from the UK to Ghana were £301 million. In the same year, Ghana’s exporting of goods to the UK was recorded to be £291 million and its exports of services to the UK were at £207 million. Numerous UK companies currently operate within Ghana, including Standard Chartered, Vodafone, Tullow, Blue Skies, British Airways, G4S, Prudential, GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, and Diageo. There are numerous opportunities for UK businesses across many sectors in Ghana including agriculture, education, financial services, free zones, health, infrastructure, oil and gas, and tourism. In most sectors 100% foreign ownership is allowed, however not in all. MARKET EXPERTS

Welcome from Marco Forgione – Director General of the Institute of Export & International Trade After 47 years of close political and economic alignment, the UK’s departure from the European Union on 31st January 2020 will require it to move swiftly to develop business and trading partnerships as an independent nation. One of the main opportunities is for the UK to form new relationships with the rapidly growing and developing nations in Africa. The UK Government’s commitment to Africa was made clear with the UK-Africa Investment Summit hosted in London on 20th January 2020. Africa has eight of the 15 fastest growing global economies. To date, the UK has signed trade agreements with 13 African countries and legislated for a trade preference scheme with a further 35 African countries. The UK has established Ghana as a priority partner, exemplified by the creation of the UK-Ghana Business Council (UKGBC), an economic forum co-chaired by His Excellency The Vice President Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and UK Ministers. The UKGBC is currently focused on six key sectors (financial services, agro-processing, extractives, garments, digital and pharmaceuticals). In 2021, the UK and Ghana have signed an Interim Trade Partnership Agreement (TPA) which is currently in effect. The aim of this trade agreement is to increase and promote trade between the UK and Ghana. In 2020, bilateral trade was worth £1.3 billion, up 21% on 2019 and UK businesses are becoming more active in trading with Ghana, supported by $1 billion of credit guarantees from UK Export Finance.

Ghana allows for the 100% foreign ownership of domestic businesses and has free zones where goods can be traded with other countries exempt from customs duties, making it an attractive proposition for foreign investment. It has the highest World Bank ‘Ease of Doing Business In’ ranking for the region and had a nominal GDP of US $68.5 billion as of 2021. With a rising population and a growing middle class, it is also a market with considerable growth opportunities. The Ghanaian Government has set out a ‘forwardlooking plan for industrialisation and economic diversification’, according to great.gov.uk, including ‘stimulating private sector investment in key manufacturing sectors, infrastructure and mining’. Formerly known as the ‘Gold Coast’ but now named after a 13th century trading empire in its northwest, Ghana continues to be a significant hub for international business in the West Africa region. This is partly due to its stable democracy and coastal location. In line with the UK Government’s policy, IOE&IT believe that there are significant opportunities for UK businesses to trade with Ghana. Our training and education programmes will ensure that your business strategy and operational plans meet with compliance, customs, trade policies, and protocols. Through our certified and accredited programmes, we help ensure that you mitigate any trade risk, and avoid disruption allowing you to focus on growing your market.

Marco Forgione Director General of the Institute of Export & International Trade www.export.org.uk

We Stand With You SME | Retail | Corporate | Trade | Loans

Introduction from Lindsey Gilbert-Crouch, Ghana Country Director & Africa Sector Director for Green Economy I am delighted to welcome you to this guide on doing business with Ghana. The Institute of Export and International Trade helps businesses find new opportunities all over the world. I hope this guide will help UK businesses to get the information they need to enter the Ghanaian market and thrive here. I am sure that you will soon be captivated by the sheer vibrancy and dynamism of the business environment in Ghana, as well as the warmth of its people. Ghana is rich in natural resources, has a population of over 30 million, and a GDP of US $68.5 billion. Ghana is an important partner for the UK in West Africa. It is a stable democracy and has aspirations to be the first African country to move ‘beyond aid’. Its top exports include gold, cocoa and oil. Despite the challenges of Covid-19, the economy grew by 1.1% in 2020. The Government of Ghana’s commitment to making Ghana a continental hub for trade and investment is impressive. The African Continental Free Trade Area’s (AfCFTA) decision to place their secretariat in Accra is an indication that Ghana’s position as a centre for international trade in West Africa is now receiving global recognition. There has never been a better time for UK companies to do business in Ghana. The UK and Ghana signed a Trade Partnership Agreement in March 2021, which will pave the way for further opportunity for both British and Ghanaian companies, creating jobs and prosperity for the citizens of both countries. I hope that you will find this guide to be a useful introduction to doing business with Ghana. The Department for International Trade team look forward to helping you to explore any opportunities you may identify here.

Lindsey Gilbert-Crouch, Ghana Country Director and Africa Sector Director for Green Economy, Department for International Trade. 14

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Foreword by Ms. Adjoba Kyiamah, Executive Director of the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) Dear All, I am delighted to welcome you to this edition of the “Doing Business with Ghana Guide”. Ghana is taking its rightful place at the forefront of global business. It is an attractive prospect for British businesses and investment in Africa, ranking second in West Africa and seventh in Africa, for Foreign Direct Investments attraction. Ghana has one of the fastest growing economies in the world, with improving macroeconomic conditions and a growing middle class. Ghana is rich in natural resources such as gold, diamonds, bauxite, manganese, timber and the recently found oil. Ghana is the world's second-largest producer of cocoa. The developing oil and gas industry requires sophisticated and specialised financing and insurance services. Ghana has maintained its reputation as one of Africa’s most stable democracies and peaceful, friendliest, and safest countries. It offers excellent connections to the UK and Europe via sea and air, due to its unique geographical location. Ghana’s central geo-location provides investors with access to trade in both the West African and entire African market through ECOWAS and ACFTA respectively. Public-private partnership in Ghana is improving with lots of ongoing projects. Ghana has a strong, long-standing economic, political and cultural relationship with the UK, being one of its priority markets in Africa. For companies who are ready to explore the business opportunities in both the UK and Ghana, the UKGCC team is at hand to help by connecting you to the right people and services. Ms. Adjoba Kyiamah Executive Director of the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC)

Department for International Trade (DIT) DIT is the British Government department that helps UK-based companies succeed in an increasingly global economy. DIT also helps overseas companies bring their high quality investment to the UK’s economy. DIT’s range of expert services are tailored to the needs of individual businesses to maximise their international success. DIT provides companies with knowledge, advice and practical support. Through a range of unique services, including participation at selected tradeshows, outward trade missions and providing bespoke market intelligence, DIT can help you crack foreign markets and get to grips quickly with overseas regulations and business practice. With headquarters in London, DIT have professional advisers around the UK and staff across more than 100 countries. Contact DIT Contact your local International Trade Team or Scottish Development International (SDI), Welsh Government (WG) or Invest Northern Ireland (INI) offices to find out more about the range of services available to you. You can find your nearest International Trade Team at: https://www.great.gov.uk/contact/office-finder/ General enquiry number: +44 (0) 207 215 5000 Department for International Trade 3 Whitehall Place London SW1A 2AW United Kingdom Email: DIT.Africa@fcdo.gov.uk 18

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To check your eligibility for trade finance and insurance isit: www.great.gov.uk/trade-finance

UK Export Finance is the operating name of the Export Credits Guarantee Department (ECGD) Website: www.gov.uk/uk-export-finance Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7271 8010 Email: customer.service@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

About International Market Advisor (IMA) International Market Advisor (IMA) works with British and foreign government departments, Embassies, High Commissions and international Chambers of Commerce throughout the world. Our work helps to identify the most efficient ways for British companies to trade with and invest in opportunity-rich overseas markets. During the last ten years IMA has worked with the British Government's overseas trade and investment department, the Department for International Trade (DIT) [formerly UK Trade & Investment (UKTI)], and has written, designed, produced, launched and distributed over one million copies of more than 100 countryspecific print and multi-media based reports, guides and publications, including the internationally-recognised ‘Doing Business Guide’ series of trade publications. These are composed of market and industry sector-specific, multi-format print and digital trade reports, together with some of the internet’s most visited international trade websites – all of which are designed to advise and assist UK companies looking to trade with and invest in overseas markets. These reports and guides are then distributed free-ofcharge through the IMA and DIT global networks – over 500 distribution outlets in total. Further distribution takes place at global exhibitions, roadshows, conferences and trade missions, and IMA receives daily requests for additional copies of the guides from these networks and from businesses considering exporting. Each of IMA’s 'Doing Business Guides’ is produced in three formats: a full colour, glossy, paper-based brochure; a supporting fully-interactive and updatable multi-media based website; and the website contents available as a free-ofcharge downloadable smartphone/ tablet app.

The guides’ contents focus on the market in question, how to approach that market and the help and support available, and include informative market overviews, plus details of business opportunities, listings with website links to British and Foreign Government support services and essential private sector serviceprovider profiles. Sponsoring a ‘Doing Business Guide’ therefore offers a unique opportunity to positively promote your products and services to high-profile business leaders, specific exporters, investors and effective business travellers who will be actively seeking out service providers to assist them in developing their business interests in the targeted markets. For more information on IMA please visit our website: www.DoingBusinessGuides.com Contact IMA Office address IMA Ltd. 2nd Floor, 32 Park Green Macclesfield SK11 7NA Email: info@ima.uk.com General enquiries switchboard T: +44 (0) 1298 79562 Media enquiries Newsdesk & out of hours T: +44 (0) 1298 79562

ABOUT THIS GUIDE This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to other sources of help. The main objective of this Doing Business with Ghana Guide is to provide you with basic knowledge about Ghana; an overview of its economy, business culture, potential opportunities and to identify the main issues associated with initial research, market entry, risk management and cultural and language issues. We do not pretend to provide all the answers in the guide, but novice exporters in particular will find it a useful starting point. Further assistance is available from the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana. Full contact details are available in this guide. To help your business succeed in Ghana we have carefully selected a variety of essential service providers as ‘Market Experts’.

The guide is available in 4 formats: •

the website: www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

•

this full colour hard-copy brochure

•

a ‘free’ downloadable 'mobile device-friendly’ app – available from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

•

PDF download/e-flipbook (available on the guide website)

Doing Business with Ghana Guide Team: Project Director:

Craig Smith

Managing Editors:

Megan Collingwood

Sponsorship Managers:

James Clowes / Cheryl Hughes

Creative Managers:

Paul King / Claire King

Creative Consultants:

Twistedgifted / www.twistedgifted.com

Production Co-ordinator:

Kitty Waldron-Draba

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

Printed using materials from sustainable sources

‘Doing Business with Ghana Guide’ published in the UK by International Market Advisor Ltd. © 2022 International Market Advisor Ltd (unless otherwise stated). All rights reserved. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

PW is a leading general contractor, operating in contract mining, civil engineering, building construction and property development, with industrial construction representing another area of expertise.

PW as an engineering company can be traced back 70 years when it was incorporated as H&D Flinn in Ireland. By 1963 the Company had undergone massive expansion, playing a major role in some of the largest, most prestigious civil engineering projects ever undertaken in the country. To reﬂect its developing status, the name was changed to Public Works Ltd and later to PW Ltd. The ﬁrm began operating in West Africa in the early 1970s before the Ghana subsidiary founded in 1995. In 2007, PW Mining was formed as a business unit to address the

www.pwmil.com

ever-growing mining workload being undertaken, with its footprint today stretching from Sierra Leone to the Republic of Congo. Starting in 1997, PW performed all contract mining at the Obotan Gold Mine for the complete lifecycle for Resolute Mining from Australia. This project demonstrated that the Company had made the jump from a well-known and respected civil engineering contractor into a fully-ﬂedged mining contractor. From then, PW routinely broke into new markets and built up a formidable track record of completing milestone projects.

Having tracked the potential of this site for several years prior to being awarded its contract, PW initially secured the site earthworks development which it began in January 2018. Thereafter it signed up for a concrete works package, and ﬁnally a contract for pit development in the Nangolo Pit on site, rounding off a project that demonstrates to prospective mining clients in the region the breadth of its capabilities.

North Mara in Tanzania (2002), Youga in Burkina Faso (2007) and Syama in Mali (2008) were landmark projects, clear stepping stones which have taken PW Mining to its current position in the African mining sector. In the last few years the ﬁrm secured contract mining work at Obotan from Asanko Gold, a happy return for PW after the mine was reopened. This was followed by the move into the Esaase pit operations, opening up a new phase on the Obotan gold mine. In Burkina Faso, the Company has undertaken a three-pronged series of work for Teranga Gold Corporation at its Wahgnion Gold Project.

PW has numerous opportunities and each one will be hard fought for, recognising that this is a very competitive period for contractors.

www.pwmil.com

A key factor in PW’s successful track record is its ability to respond ﬂexibly and make decisions quickly thanks to its relatively ﬂat organisational structure and private ownership. One of our key objectives as a company is to deliver top class value and service to our clients by providing cost effective, quality workmanship which is executed with due regard to all HSE parameters, and to deliver completion of our contracts on agreed timelines. These points are critical to the Company, and they strive to achieve all of them on all projects. Recently, operations have been boosted by the opening of a new centralised equipment maintenance workshop in Tema.

www.pwmil.com

specialise in sourcing, inspecting, shipping and clearing goods across West Africa, facilitating a seamless operation, while major suppliers of equipment and materials are utilised locally where possible.

Around 4,000 square metres in size, the facility consolidates operations for heavy equipment and transport and caters for in-house component rebuilding. The site also has a purpose-built customs bonded area to improve clearing times from the port. During 2018 and 2019 the Company imported additional dozers, and articulated and rigid dumptrucks to support the load and haul operations. These purchases not only serve to replace equipment reaching the end of effective service, but also to grow the HME fleet to enable readiness for a quick start up on newly secured projects. While investment in state-of-the-art equipment and facilities has been crucial to PW’s ability to serve clients, the firm is also reliant on its team of boundary-pushing employees. To ensure the Company has the best chance of attracting and retaining the requisite talent, it provides generous compensation and benefits packages, industry-leading working conditions and opportunities for training and professional development.

Partnerships are vital and are based on all facets of the business relationship. While cost is vitally important, PW understands it is equally important not to become blinkered by this single parameter. It has built up solid relationships with key partners, reaching the optimum position with them in terms of value, quality and expediency. PW aims to strengthen its reputation to the point that its mining clients consider it to be a strategic partner – they believe that it is the best contract mining company in Africa, they wish to partner with the Company on a repeat basis and that they know PW for its integrity, excellence, and quality of delivery.

TONY O’NEILL PW Mining International Ltd Mining Contractors 10 Abidjan Avenue, East Legon, Accra, Ghana www.pwmil.com Tel: +233 302 518 112 Email: pwg@pwmil.com

PW has always believed in encouragement of innovation and initiative. Many staff recognise that PW will encourage them towards levels of performance that previously they may not have attained. By offering these opportunities PW continues to build up a loyal team of employees. The ﬁrm can also draw on a loyal base of partners that make up its procurement and supply chain network. These companies

www.pwmil.com

Panoramic view over Accra, Ghana

GHANA

In West Africa, Ghana is the most stable country with an English-speaking population, making it a suitable choice for UK companies and institutions to set up their regional headquarters.

WHY GHANA?

REIDsteel is a trading name of John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd - Company Registration No: 617773.

REIDsteel are experts in the design and build of the following:

The business was established in 1919 by Colonel John Reid and to date, remains family owned with a dynamic and progressive management team.

Aircraft hangars, hangar doors and hangar extensions

We design, fabricate and erect high quality steel framed structures including cladding, glazing and door systems. The company has strong financial foundations, an excellent credit rating and has earned a very good reputation within the industry both in the UK and overseas.

Bridges

We have cur rently shipped to over 140 countries worldwide. We study your requirements, structural, functional and architectural: and propose efficient, safe, rapid and cost effective designs and methods to achieve your goals. We like to sit around the table with our clients and their advisors to achieve the optimum solutions. One of our customers summed it up nicely . . . “By placing multiple elements with REIDsteel, you mitigate many of the risks that are associated with multi-subcontractor management”. Every project is unique, so if you do have a job that you would like to discuss, please get in touch with us for a chat. First point of contact is one of our experienced Sales Team professionals: T: E:

+44 (0) 1202 483333 sales@reidsteel.co.uk

Car parks Church and community buildings Cranes Environmental structures Grandstands and stadia Housing, hospitals and schools Hurricane and earthquake resistant buildings Industrial and warehouse buildings Leisure and sports buildings Office buildings, commercial buildings and retail superstores Security gates, barriers and defensive structures

Aircraft hangars, hangar doors and hangar extensions W h e th e r yo u n e e d a c l e a r span hangar to accommodate a fleet of the world’s largest aircraft or a smaller hangar for more modest needs, it is something we can de sign, fabricate, ship and erect. We b u i l d o u r o w n h a n g a r doors as we believe there is a great advantage in having the hangar and doors from the same company. Top: 280m maintenance hangar, Malta Far left: 55m Royal Air Force hangar, UK Near left; 89m MRO hangar, UK

Bridges (vehicle & pedestrian) Steel bridges designed, fabricated and shipped worldwide. Our bridge designs can range from utilitarian to architectural, with a range of decking/roadway options and can be hot dip galvanised or have a paint finish. A bridge can be given a more architectural look with a range of cladding or glazing options. Left: Covered and open pedestrian bridges. Below: Vehicle Bridge, Sudan

Grandstands, stadia and sports/leisure buildings W h e t h e r a p r a c t i c a l, c o s t effective grandstand/sports stadium which fully complies w i t h t h e l a te s t s a f e t y a n d viewing standards or a sports hall for a single primary sport or a multi-spor ts complex, we can design and build a versatile steel framed s u p e r s t r u c t u r e to f i t yo u r needs and the needs of the sports to be played. Top: Civic Centre Sports Complex, Belize Far left: Racing Hospitality Centre, UK Near left: Grandstand, Anguilla

Hospitals, housing and schools Steel frames make building houses, apartment blocks, dormitories, hospitals and schools safe and economic. Once the frame is in place, brickwork and /or cladding can quickly be added to the steel frame to produce the finished structure. As part of the steel framing we can include staircases, handrails etc and supply windows, doors, cur tain walling and solar shading. Top right: Hospital, Ghana Right: Steel framed housing, Nigeria

Industrial and warehouse buildings We offer bespoke design and construction of specialist industrial steel buildings and warehouse buildings. We can include roller shutter or up & over doors, hangar doors, ventilation, windows, staircases, gantries and overhead cranes.

We have specialist knowledge if the building ne e d s to withs t a nd high wind sp e e d s o r seismic loads. From left to right: High bay warehouse, Dominica; High bay automated storage & retrieval warehouse, UK; Wheat Mill, Madagascar.

Office buildings, commercial buildings and retail superstores

Photos: Various office, showroom & superstore projects in the UK, except for bottom right - office in Belize.

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Strucsteel House, 3 Reid Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2BT England Tel: +44 (0) 1202 483333 • Fax: +44 (0) 1202 470103 Email: sales@reidsteel.co.uk • Web: www.reidsteel.com

• ESTAB

Over a Century of structural steel design experience

• ESTAB

John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd,

SHED 191 LI

REIDsteel

S te e l i s a n i d e a l m e d i u m fo r of f ic e s a n d showrooms. With an in-house glazing department we can also supply the windows, curtain walling and solar shading that will make your building look attractive on the outside while creating a ver y good work environment on the inside. You can benefit from our experience in producing clear span structures to reduce internal support columns and create large clear areas.

Why Ghana?

Summary Area: 238,533 km2

GDP per capita: US $2,225.5

Population: 30.78 million

Annual inﬂation rate: 9.9%

Urban population: 57.3%

General government gross debt: 78.9% of GDP

Population growth rate: 1.634% change

Fiscal balance: -15.7% of GDP

Capital city: Accra

Current account balance: -3.1% of GDP/US $-2.1 billion

Official language: English

Exports of goods to UK: £291 million

Currency: Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)

Exports of services to UK: £207 million

Nominal GDP: US $68.5 billion

Imports of goods from UK: £421 million

Real annual GDP growth: 0.4%

Imports of services from UK: £301 million

[Source – FCDO Economics Unit (December 2021), FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

In West Africa, Ghana is a politically stable country with an English-speaking population, making it a suitable choice for UK companies and institutions to set up their regional headquarters. Ghana is a regional entry and exit point on trade routes due to its well-positioned location, as well as its two large ports which are undergoing continuous expansion. The country’s air links mean that there is quick and direct access for imports and exports from Ghana to Europe and the US, and vice versa. Ghana is seen as a valuable investment base for the West African region by British businesses, even though challenges do occur. A number of UK companies have already set up business within multiple market sectors and are seen as ﬂourishing ﬂagships. [Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

Geography Ghana is a mineral rich West African country, situated between Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, Côte d’Ivoire to the west and the coastline lying on the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It is 238,533 km2 and has a population of 30.78 million, 57.3% of which live in urban areas. The climate is tropical, with a warm and dry southeast coast, a hot, humid southwest and a north that is predominantly hot and dry. The savannah country experiences two clear seasons, with November to March being the dry season and a wet season that peaks during August and September.

There are numerous sandy beaches dotted along Ghana’s coastline, including Labadi Pleasure Beach, Kokrobite Beach, Coco Beach Resort, White Sands Beach Resort, Dixcove, Busua and Ada. The country consists of predominantly low plains, although plateaus of up to 2,000 feet high run through the north and south of the country. Ghana is also home to Lake Volta, the world’s largest artiﬁcial lake by surface area, which is 8,482 km2. [Source – FAO: Food and Agriculture Organization, DIT, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, CIA World Factbook]

Government Ghana’s democratic foundations and track record set it apart from many of its West African neighbours. The country has a number of political parties with leaders of each able to express their opinions. It has been suggested that Ghana’s political climate is ‘winner-takesall’, however, there is a stable political settlement around two major parties: the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Ghana saw a third change of power at its seventh peaceful election since the 1992 restoration of democracy, which was held on the 7th December 2016. At the latest election, that took place on 7th December 2020, Incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo was re-elected. Nana Akufo-Addo is the current president of the Republic of Ghana. He is the leader of the NPP, the centre right, liberal conservative party. The main concerns of Akufo-Addo’s Government are to improve Ghana’s investment climate, to bring about economic reform, and to tackle corruption. The current government has also shown commitment to the IMF

Extended Credit Facility programme that aims to restore macroeconomic stability. Ultimately, the government wants to enable private sector-led job creation in order to tackle the chronic unemployment currently facing the country’s predominantly young population. Akufo-Addo is also continuing to carry out his vision for Ghana to be “Beyond Aid”. [Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

Economic overview In the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ghana is a major economy. According to ECOWAS, Ghana accounts for 9.2% of trade carried out by the 15 member states, for more information visit: https:// www.ecowas.int/ecowas-sectors/trade/. Numerous UK companies currently operate within Ghana, including Standard Chartered, Vodafone, Tullow, Blue Skies, British Airways, G4S, Prudential, GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, and Diageo. Ghana has experienced strong growth over the most recent decade, however due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Ghana’s real annual GDP growth dropped to 0.4% in 2021. This is a significant fall from the 5.8% growth the country was expected to have that year. In 2020, The country had the highest fiscal deficit in SubSaharan Africa at around 16.4%. The IMF has classified Ghana as a country at high risk of debt distress due to the economic strain the pandemic has put on the country. Ghana’s economy, however, is predicted to recover as growth is expected to reach 4.2%. Since 2014, however, there have been a number of challenges concerning macro-

economic stability as well as in the power sector which has slowed growth considerably. A US $918 million three year Extended Credit Facility was agreed by the government in 2015 in order to restore debt sustainability and macroeconomic stability. This was extended for an additional year and was seen to have made significant improvements to the country’s economy, although more progress was found to be needed. Despite the improvements made by the Extended Credit Facility, Ghana is still considered a country at high risk of debt distress. Its budget deficit and high government debt to GDP ratio pose significant macroeconomic challenges for the country. However, inflation is slowly decreasing, falling from 13.3% in January 2017 to 7.9% in December 2019. Ghana depends on relatively few commodities such as gold, cocoa and oil which leaves the economy unbalanced and vulnerable to global price shocks. Ghana aims to diversify its economy and to add value to its raw materials. In 2020, Ghana’s growth was impacted by Covid-19 as airports and borders closed and temporary lock downs occurred. Although the pandemic has had a negative effect on Ghana’s economy it is expected to recover with growth of 4.2%, after growth dropped to 0.4% in December 2021. [Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana, DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ministry of Finance Ghana, Trading Economics]

Bilateral trade Ghana is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The country shares strong historical, economic and political ties with Great Britain. Total bilateral trade between the two countries is roughly £1.22 billion in 2021. This is an increase from the total bilateral trade in 2020, which had fallen 23.3% to £1 billion due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ghana currently ranks 118th out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s 2020 Ease of Doing Business Index and 13th out of 48 in the Sub-Saharan African region, making it one of the more favourable countries in Africa with which to do business. Ghana is seen as a role model in the region as it has signed up to numerous international agreements. Ghana also acceded to Voluntary Principles for governing the mining sector and is an EITI signatory. Ghana and the UK have a double taxation agreement. This allows some taxes paid in one country to be deducted in the other, so should prevent any double tax liability from UK and Ghanaian authorities over the same income. See: https://www.gov.uk/government /publications/ghana-tax-treaties. Some incentives for British companies considering exporting to Ghana include: •

English is the official language of business and is widely spoken throughout the country

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the judicial system is similar to English common law principles

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there is a large consumer base and a growing middle class

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Ghana has a well-developed market for ﬁnancial and legal services

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it has an efficient infrastructure relative to the rest of the West African region

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it is growing as a regional hub for opportunities that may be available in other West African markets

However, there can be some challenges when entering the Ghanaian market. These include:

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temperamental energy distribution causing frequent power cuts

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cocoa

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the country’s obstructive bureaucracy

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canned ﬁsh

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a lack of investment in infrastructure and a limited experience of PPP

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fruit and vegetables

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petroleum products

issues with corruption, Ghana is ranked 73rd out of 180 countries in Transparency International's latest 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index (announced January 2022)

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metal scrap

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coffee

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a high level of unemployment and poverty

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the Ghanaian capital market is underdeveloped

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there is an underdeveloped agricultural base

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a lack of transparency regarding tenders, particularly in public procurement due to ‘sole sourcing’

Business and human rights Ghana is among Africa’s best human rights performers and its track record of respecting human rights is a positive one. Freedom House has stated that ‘freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed and generally respected’ in Ghana. The constitution is predominantly progressive and is well respected. The country passed domestic violence legislation in 2007 and the Convention Eliminating All Forms of Discrimation against Women (CEDAW) has been ratiﬁed.

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macroeconomic instability and IMF restrictions on government spending

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Some of the top exports into Ghana from the UK include: •

textiles

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specialised machinery

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medicinal and pharmaceutical products

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beverages

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electrical machinery and appliances

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petroleum products

The top imports from Ghana into the UK include:

[Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

Despite these improvements, there are still some challenges for women and minorities, and there also tends to be some regional inequality. Only around 13% of seats in the Ghanaian National Parliament are held by women, whereas the Sub-Saharan African average sits at closer to 24%. Discrimination against minorities, such as people with disabilities, mental illnesses or stigmatised illnesses like HIV/AIDS, is an issue in Ghana. No legislation officially outlaws homosexuality, but there has been little progress in the country when it comes to decreasing the amount of discrimination faced by LGBT individuals. Ghanaian punishment still includes the death penalty, although no one has been executed there since 1993. The sentence, however, is still handed out by the Ghanaian courts.

The north of Ghana faces particular problems with poverty. Rural communities across the country as a whole also tend to be more likely to require their children to work instead of attending school. Social norms are, however, slowly beginning to change, especially amongst the more progressive youth population and the urban middle class.

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Strengths of the Ghanaian market The strengths of the Ghanaian market include: •

the stock market is expanding

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the country’s well developed ﬁnancial and legal services

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Ghana has comparatively well developed infrastructure compared to most West African countries

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large amount of skilled and trainable workers available

[Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

Contact a DIT Export Adviser at: https://www. great.gov.uk/contact/triage/location/ for a free consultation if you are interested in exporting to Ghana. Contact UK Export Finance (UKEF) about trade finance and insurance cover for UK companies. You can also check the current UKEF cover position for Ghana. See: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/country-coverpolicy-and-indicators#ghana. Benefits for UK businesses exporting to Ghana The benefits for UK businesses exporting to Ghana include:

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Growth potential According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), in 2015, Ghana’s economic growth slowed to a 3.5% growth rate, resulting from the country suffering continuous severe power shortages and ﬁscal consolidation.

•

having immediate access to all ECOWAS markets

•

English is widely spoken and is the official business language

In December 2021, the country’s real annual GDP growth was at 0.4%, lower than expected due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and the country’s GDP per capita rose to US $2,225.5, and its nominal GDP reached US $68.5 billion.

•

100% foreign ownership is permitted

Growth is expected to be improved through:

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the judicial system is based on English common law principles

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oil and gas production improvements

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private sector investment increase

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having a large consumer base with a growing middle class

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public infrastructure development improvements

the country developing as a regional hub for opportunities in other West African markets

•

increased political stability

•

export free zones where goods traded with other countries are exempt from customs duties and some laws

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

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World rankings In addition: •

In Transparency International's latest 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index (announced January 2022) Ghana is ranked 73rd out 180 countries (the UK ranks 11th): https:// www.transparency.org/en/countries/ghana

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Ghana ranks 118th out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s 2020 Ease of Doing Business Index (the UK ranks 8th): https://www.doingbusiness.org/en/ data/exploreeconomies/ghana

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The World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report 2019 ranks Ghana 111th out of 141 (the UK ranks 9th): http://reports.weforum.org/globalcompetitiveness-report-2019/economyproﬁles/#economy=GHA

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Ghana ranks 89th out of 178 countries in the Heritage Foundation’s 2022 Index of Economic Freedom (the UK ranks 24th): https://www.heritage.org/index/country/ ghana

Trade between UK and Ghana The UK is one of Ghana’s largest foreign investors with strong economic ties. In 2018, UK imports of goods from Ghana increased by 143.7%. In December 2021, imports of goods from the UK to Ghana were valued at £421 million and imports of services from the UK to Ghana were £301 million. In the same year, Ghana’s exporting of goods to the UK was recorded to be £291 million and its export of services to the UK was at £207 million. In 2021, the UK and Ghana have signed an Interim Trade Partnership Agreement (TPA) which is currently in effect. The aim of this trade agreement is to increase and promote

trade between the UK and Ghana. For more information regarding the Interim Trade Partnership Agreement (TPA), see: https://www. gov.uk/guidance/trade-with-ghana. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Following Brexit, the UK has signed a new trade deal with Ghana, strengthening the ties between the two countries. This new trade agreement, worth £1.2 billion, utilises the terms of the EU-Ghana trade agreement that previously benefited both countries. The deal was finalised on 2nd March 2021, when it was signed by Ghana’s Acting High Commissioner to the UK, Peprah Ampratwum. This agreement aims to remove tariffs on many Ghanaian goods, such as cocoa, tinned tuna and bananas, and from 2023, exports of chemical products, machinery and electronics from the UK will benefit from lower tariffs. For further information see: https://www.export.org.uk/ news/554657/UK-rolls-over-trade-deal-withGhana-with-New-Zealand-or-Australia-inline-for-next-agreement.htm. On the 15th April 2021, a new diploma was launched in Ghana in order to help diversify and improve the way in which the country exports. The diploma in international trade is set to help expand trade between the UK and Ghana, as well as other African and developing countries. The diploma has been developed using the Institute of Export and International Trade’s (IOE&IT) Level 4 Diploma in International Trade, with the content being localised by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority. The diploma is online based and is being managed by the United Nations-sponsored International Trade Centre. For more information, see: https://www.export.org.uk/news/ 560848/Launch-of-new-trade-diploma-inGhana-further-strengthens-partnership-withUK-after-trade-deal.htm. [Source – IOE&IT]

Independence Square, Accra, Ghana

GHANA

The UK Department for International Trade (DIT) provides tailored support packages for companies who are first time exporters (FTEs), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and medium-sized businesses (MSBs).

HELP AVAILABLE FOR YOU

Help available for you

Support from the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) The UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC), the leading UK business support organisation in Ghana, was established in 2016, with the support of the UK’s Department for International Trade, as a member-based trade association to facilitate and promote bilateral trade between the UK and Ghana via the three platforms of networking, advocacy and trade services. The UKGCC provides exceptional support for its members through the sharing of knowledge and ideas, creating platforms for building stronger networks and providing linkages with Government and its agencies. One of its key focuses is to see Ghana become a signiﬁcant economic partner for the UK as an export market, import source, investment destination and vice versa. It exists to further the business interests of its members across both countries and create more business opportunities. The Chamber is backed by the British and Ghana Governments through the UK-Ghana Business Council and the British Chambers of Commerce in the UK. What the UKGCC do Networking - The Chamber hosts several events throughout the year, giving their members the platform to build and raise their proﬁle, get invaluable personal referrals and word-of-mouth advertising and explore business opportunities. They also engage with their members

through networking events such as cocktails, business clinics, sector speciﬁc seminars, masterclasses, webinars, surveys, round-table forums and one-to-one discussions. Their members get to feature their offers and special events in the UKGCC’s monthly newsletter circulated among a well-tailored audience of over a thousand people. At their networking receptions members get to meet and interact with key people from government, the British High Commission, industry and other business support organisations. Through the UKGCC’s strategic partners in the UK and Ghana, they offer their members the opportunity to participate in trade missions, exhibitions and fairs throughout the year; where they meet potential buyers, manufacturers, distributors, suppliers and business support groups. The UKGCC’s trade missions feature pre-arranged group meetings, site visits, in-country brieﬁngs by government officials, industry and market leaders and tours around the UK (for out-bound missions). They also host incoming delegations from the UK. They have a large interactive social media following that enables their news contents to reach a wide audience. Advocacy - As a strong, reputable and the most recognised voice of the UK-Ghana business community, the UKGCC directly engages with both the Ghana and UK Governments, policy makers, opinion leaders and all relevant stakeholders by lobbying and advocating on the interests and concerns of its members.

Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

The UKGCC positively inﬂuences and makes signiﬁcant contributions to policies and legislation that culminate in creating a more conducive business environment in Ghana that promotes success and prosperity for the business community. The UKGCC is represented on the UK-Ghana Business Council (UKGBC) by its Board Chairman, Anthony Pile. Issues that concern and affect their members’ businesses are therefore elevated to the highest level of attention. Their thought leadership programs are designed to help member companies develop the skills and capacities to improve upon their businesses. Participants get access to up-to-date and relevant industry insights and best practices, that enable them to upscale their businesses. Trade Services - For companies who are ready to explore the business opportunities in both the UK and Ghana, the UKGCC team is at hand to help by connecting you to the right people and services. They also provide business partner searches, market research and entry services. The UKGCC urges you to participate in their programmes and activities; they are only as successful with your full support. Do not hesitate to reach out to them for the information and support you might need to extend your reach. The UKGCC are here because of you and they’ll be here for you. The UKGCC are available at info@ukgcc.com.gh for business support services and general inquiries. Reach out. They are waiting for you.

Stay up to date with news about the UKGCC and their member companies as they continue to create networks and connect businesses. Website: www.ukgcc.com.gh LinkedIn: UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce Twitter: @UKGCC_ACCRA Instagram: @uk_ghanachamberofcommerce Facebook: UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce YouTube: UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce

Support from the UK Department for International Trade (DIT) The UK Department for International Trade (DIT) provides tailored support packages for companies who are: •

ﬁrst time exporters (FTEs)

•

small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

•

medium-sized businesses (MSBs)

Business opportunities ‘GREAT’, a UK Government campaign, has tailored support and advice for UK businesses on how to start exporting or increase the amount of goods and services they sell overseas. For more information see their website at: https://www.great.gov.uk/international/. You can: •

read guidance for new, occasional and frequent exporters

•

ﬁnd out about services offered by ‘GREAT’ partners

•

use the selling online overseas tool at: https://www.great.gov.uk/selling-onlineoverseas/ to ﬁnd the best marketplaces to showcase your products online you can take advantage of special deals negotiated by the government for UK businesses, and ﬁnd out more about the UK Government’s E-Exporting Programme, at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/sellingonline-overseas-with-the-digital-exportingprogramme

•

apply at: https://www.great.gov.uk/ export-opportunities/ for overseas export opportunities for your products or services

•

create a business proﬁle at: https:// www.great.gov.uk/ﬁnd-a-buyer/, which will allow you to promote your products and services to international buyers

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search for events, trade fairs, missions and webinars relevant to your sector or overseas markets, at: https://www.events. great.gov.uk/ehome/index.php?eventid =200183029&

•

see upcoming DIT international ministerial visits, at: https://www.events.great.gov.uk/ ehome/index.php?eventid=200183333&

•

apply for a tradeshow access grant at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ tradeshow-access-programme to attend an overseas event

•

contact a trade adviser in your area, at: https://www.great.gov.uk/contact/ office-ﬁnder/

Getting local market help to sell overseas DIT has trade specialists who can help you commission services from local experts overseas. This includes:

•

country and sector advice

•

local market research

•

support during overseas visits

•

identiﬁcation of possible business partners

•

preparation for exhibitions and events

To ﬁnd out more about commissioning any of these services, contact a DIT Trade Adviser in your region at: https://www.great.gov.uk/ contact/triage/location/ for a free consultation, or see further details at: https://www.gov.uk/ government/organisations/department-forinternational-trade/about-our-services. In-market support If you already trade internationally, and have decided that Ghana is part of your business strategy, you are advised to contact DIT at the British High Commission Accra prior to your visit to discuss your objectives and what help you may need. See: https://www.gov.uk/ world/organisations/department-forinternational-trade-ghana#contact-us. They can provide a range of Ghana-speciﬁc services for you, including the provision of market information, validated lists of agents/potential partners, key market players or potential customers; establishing interest from such contacts; and arranging in-market appointments. In addition, they can also organise events for you to meet contacts in Ghana, or to promote your company and your products/services. For further information about DIT services, see: https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade/about-our-services. [Source – DIT, gov.uk]

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Excellence and Integrity We are proud of our reputation and seek every opportunity to provide exceptional and exemplary world-class service to our clients that builds and reinforces our reputation, [which we recognise as our most important asset]. We take on assignments and projects only if we can add meaningful value. We have the fortitude to tell you when something is not right. We do all we can to help you succeed. Get in touch: info@oriolassociates.co.uk

Support from the Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) Raising the proﬁle of international trade qualiﬁcations and experienced members is only part of how IOE&IT membership is essential for any individual or business involved with global trade.

•

A range of short courses giving you the skills and expertise you need to gain a competitive advantage in the challenging and complex world of export, import and international trade. See: https://www. export.org.uk/page/training.

•

An extensive events programme to help you share information and connect at every level in the international trade community, whether it is sector-speciﬁc or regional. See: https://www.export. org.uk/events/event_list.asp.

•

Inclusion in surveys to research the attitudes and changes to world trade.

Importantly, the IOE&IT also offer access to a unique range of beneﬁts and services speciﬁc to international trade: •

Help with any export issues you come across. Our team of experts can help with questions on documentation, export controls, the UK Bribery Act, customs and VAT procedures, regulatory and compliance issues, insurance issues, payment terms, transport and logistics. Members get free access to our experts via a technical helpline. See: https://www.export.org.uk/ page/International_Trade_Helpline.

•

A voice for your ideas and concerns. We represent your point of view and feed back to government, HMRC and other inﬂuencing bodies on issues that impact you, plus participate in Institute responses to central government with regard to proposed legislative changes.

•

A complete range of international trade qualifications – for those that have no experience, up to those who wish to qualify themselves to take a business degree. The Institute's qualifications are widely recognised as providing both employers and employees with the necessary international business practice linked to satisfying career planning and development. See: https://www.export. org.uk/page/qualifications.

For more information on how the IOE&IT can help you, or on becoming a member, contact the IOE&IT at: https://www.export.org.uk/ page/about. Open to Export Open to Export is the IOE&IT’s free online advice service for UK companies looking to grow internationally. It offers free information and support on anything to do with exporting and hosts online discussions via its forum, webinars and social media, where businesses can ask any export question and learn from each other. Open to Export can be accessed at: http://opentoexport.com/. [Source – Institute of Export & International Trade]

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CASE STUDY

Ghana Na�onal Single Window In September 2015, the Government of Ghana launched the Ghana Na�onal Single Window (GNSW) programme to enhance the country’s trade and economic development and secure and increase government revenue. The contract was awarded to West Blue Consul�ng, a world-class business and IT-consul�ng and technology firm. Specifically, West Blue was tasked to: • Assist Ghana Customs to take over responsibility for Import Classifica�on and Valua�on. • Undertake a full feasibility study for the implementa�on of the GNSW • Develop a Risk Management System for Ghana Customs and related Agencies • Undertake specific interven�ons to support the above areas, including the development of a Container Scanning Strategy for Ghana Customs From the outset, the GNSW project was seen as a partnership between business and government to strengthen Ghana’s trade compe��veness and enhance the par�cipa�on of the business community in the global market, thereby crea�ng new trade and employment opportuni�es. This is a clear win-win scenario with direct benefits to business, government and the general public. The GNSW project builds on previous work undertaken over several years that focused on the automa�on of interna�onal trade process in Customs. A key feature of the programme is the fully automated and paperless “single entry point” to facilitate the single submission - by businesses - of the required trade informa�on for processing by government agencies and private sector operators, and the receipt of the relevant responses through a seamless and easy to use service.

The GNSW also reduces, to the maximum extent possible, the human interface in trade transac�ons, allowing most processes to be undertaken automa�cally. This greatly increases transparency and reduces the possibili�es for irregular interven�ons and payments.

The Ghana Na�onal Single Window Working towards the realisa�on of the Single Submission of data in the trade supply chain, the project adopts a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) Approach. Within this, and in line with the UN/CEFACT BUY SHIP PAY Model, the services provided by the Commercial, Financial, Transport and Logis�cs and Regulatory sectors will be reviewed for automa�on and/or integra�on. The GNSW will simplify, standardise and harmonise the underlying trade process within all key government agencies, including Customs, and will integrate these within the Na�onal Single Window framework. It will also provide traders with the cri�cal “single entry point” referred to above – to facilitate the single submission of their trade informa�on for processing and to receive the relevant response from government and private sector operators in a seamless and easy to use service.

The GNSW will simplify, standardise and harmonise the underlying trade process within all key government agencies, including Customs, and will integrate these within the Na�onal Single Window framework. It will also provide traders with the cri�cal “single entry point” referred to above – to facilitate the single submission of their trade informa�on for processing and to receive the relevant response from government and private sector operators in a seamless and easy to use service. The GNSW will, to the maximum extent possible, also reduce the human interface in trade transac�ons, allowing most processes to be undertaken automa�cally. This will greatly increase transparency and reduce the possibili�es for irregular interven�ons and payments. In addi�on, the GNSW will introduce a fully integrated Risk Management system that will allow Customs to focus inspec�on and examina�ons on higher risk consignments, thus facilita�ng the free ﬂow of legi�mate transac�ons. This approach also provides for the single coordinated inspec�on of containers, should such an interven�on be deemed necessary. Again, this will greatly speed up the ﬂow of goods along the value chain, reduce costs and increase predictability - all key factors in trade compe��veness. The GNSW services will be delivered via www.ghanastradinghub.gov.gh, complimented by other service delivery programmes such as the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB) and an Import; Export and Transit Process Manual.

Achievements To Date The first, and indeed pressing, task of the GNSW Project was to provide the necessary technical, architectural and administra�ve support to Ghana Customs to take over the pre-arrival classifica�on and valua�on process for imports from the 1st of September 2015. This work was previously handled by five Des�na�on Inspec�on Companies and was discon�nued in order to bring Ghana into line with global best prac�ce as recommended by the World Custom Organiza�on and World Trade Organisa�on. West Blue developed the fully automated Pre-Arrival Assessment Repor�ng System (PAARS) and the complimen�ng suite of opera�onal and capacity building ac�vi�es to provide this func�on. It went live on 1 September 2015 and already within in its first months of opera�on has reduced the �me for import classifica�on and valua�on of compliant transac�ons from 2 weeks to the established 48 hours Service Level Agreement - and in some cases just 2 hours. The system is fully func�onal and has been well received by the business community – “An extremely important effort at re-engineering a major tool for trade facilita�on; a wonderful experience so far!” Kwabena Ofosu Appiah- President of Ghana Ins�tute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF). It is also important to note that this major change in procedures was associated with an actual increase in Customs revenues in 2015, which demonstrates that it is possible to have enhanced trade facilita�on while simultaneously securing (and indeed increasing) government revenues. SeeThe second major task assigned to West Blue Consul�ng was to undertake a full feasibility study for the GNSW. As Single Window is a collabora�ve and partnership concept by nature, this involved close coopera�on and engagement with all key stakeholders - including all relevant government agencies and business associa�ons.

Over 40 stakeholder assessment mee�ngs with individual agencies and associa�ons was done, this was to assess the current business processes and procedures for interna�onal trade; the related documents and informa�on ﬂows; the informa�on and communica�ons (ICT) infrastructure currently in place; and the stakeholder and change management requirements to support the implementa�on of the GNSW. The outcome was the release of the Ghana’s Import, Export and Transit process manual (h�ps://www.ghanastradinghub.gov.gh/Tools/Logo/Process%20Manual.pdf), launched by the former president of Ghana, H.E John Dramani Mahama. A�er which, the Strategic Ac�on Plan to achieve the Single Window Programme was also released. See h�ps://www.ghanastradinghub.gov.gh/Tools/Logo/1E2EC473F6D1481439810943FE7F6450.pdf Another major deliverable was the introduc�on of Ghana’s First CashXPress Card for payments of Customs Duty and other ﬁscal payments on the Ghana’s Trading Hub Portal – see h�ps://www.ghanastradinghub.gov.gh/News/entryid/7180.

Other key deliverables in the project so far include: • establishment of the fully automated HS Classiﬁca�on tool - to assist traders to determine the appropriate Harmonised System(HS) Code for their imports and exports; • establishment of the Tema and Kotoka Interna�onal Airport electronic helpdesk (e-Zone);

Impact To Date • 16 port examina�on agencies reduced to 3, with the introduc�on of the Joint Inspec�on Management Informa�on System; • Single Window System increased government revenue by 24% in 2018; revenue in 2017; • Paperless Port saves Ghana, 500 Million USD in two years- University of Ghana Business School report second edi�on, 2018; • Improvement in the World Bank ease of doing business report: o In 2017, Ghana made substan�al improvement in its Trading Across Border by 13 places moving from 167 in 2016 – 154 in 2017. o In 2017, Ghana made substan�al improvement in its rankings in the sub-Saharan region by moving from 37 in 2016 – 29 in 2017 • Ghana ra�fied the World Trade Organiza�on “Trade Facilita�on Agreement” in 2016 • Reduc�on in the �me and cost of import procedures of 400 hours and US $50 respec�vely, per consignment in 2016. • Ghana made trading across borders easier by removing the mandatory pre-arrival assessment inspec�on at origin for imported products,"- World Bank, 2017. • "Ghana is among the economies that heavily invested in electronic systems to facilitate trade. In September 2015, it implemented the first phase of its na�onal single window and ended the contract with Des�na�on Inspec�on Companies for its Pre-Arrival Assessment programme”. World Bank, 2016. • Improvements were registered in the World Bank Logis�cs Performance Index (LPI) as Ghana’s ranking, rose from 12 places from 100th in 2014 to 88th in 2016 out of 160 countries. This is the largest year on year increase in Ghana’s global LPI ranking since the survey was first undertaken in 2007.

Ghana Office 5th Floor, New Cocoshe Building B28 A. (off Agos�no Neto Rd.) Airport Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 (0) 303969556 Nigeria Office Sunshine Estate, No B21 David Garnvwa Street, Gwarimpa Abuja Tel: +234 (0) 92914821

Visit Us: www.westblueconsul�ng.com info@westblueconsul�ng.com westblueconsul�ng westblueltd

Takoradi Airport, Takoradi, Ghana

GHANA

Ghana is a deeply religious, conservative country. Although many people also hold progressive and modern beliefs, it is important that you show respect for traditional moral values.

GETTING HERE AND ADVICE ABOUT YOUR STAY

Getting here and advice about your stay

Entry rules in response to coronavirus Due to COVID-19, Ghana’s entry requirements are constantly being changed and updated in order to be in line with the country's guidelines during the pandemic. For more information see guidance from the FCDO at: https:// www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ghana/ entry-requirements and https://www.gov.uk /foreign-travel-advice/ghana/coronavirus, for up-to-date guidelines for entering Ghana.

Entry requirements Visas As a British passport holder, you will need a visa in order to enter Ghana. Should you require further information, contact the Ghana High Commission in London, at: https://www.ghanahighcommissionuk.com/ contactus.aspx. Ensure that you are aware of the number of days stamped into your passport by the Ghanaian Immigration Service (https://home.gis.gov.gh/), regardless of the validity of your visa. Overstaying without the appropriate authority may lead to detention or you may be refused permission to exit Ghana until you have paid a ﬁne. Dual nationality Dual nationality is recognised in Ghana. In order to avoid visa fees, Ghanaian-British nationals should register with the Ministry of the Interior in Ghana and obtain a Dual Nationality card. Should you show this card at any point of entry into the country, a visa will not be required.

Visit Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior website here: https://www.mint.gov.gh/ for more information. Passport validity Ensure that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from your date of entry into Ghana. UK Emergency Travel Documents UK Emergency Travel Documents are valid for exit from Ghana. However, ETDs are not accepted for entry or transit through Ghana. Yellow fever certificate requirements Visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website at: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/89/ ghana#Vaccine_recommendations to check whether you need a yellow fever certificate. Volunteering If you are planning to travel to Ghana to work with a volunteer programme or for work experience then you should make yourself fully aware of any terms and conditions that apply to your stay. Ensure that the company you intend to work for is reputable before you commit to travelling. Residents If you live in Ghana then you should make sure to register with the National Identification Authority (NIA) of Ghana and get a non-citizen GhanaCard, see: https://nia.gov.gh/. This applies to: •

foreign nationals who are permanent residents in the country

•

foreign nationals who are resident in the country for 90 days or more in any calendar year

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

•

foreign nationals who are 6 years old or older

You need a non-citizen GhanaCard in order to apply for a residence permit, for admission into Ghanaian educational institutions, for financial transactions including opening a bank account, paying taxes, registering sim cards and applying for public and/or government services, facilities approvals and permissions. You can complete the registration process at: National Identification Authority Tetteh Quarshie Near Gulf House Accra Telephone: +233 (0) 302218080 Ghana Immigration Service (off Ako Adjei Overpass) Independence Avenue Accra Telephone: +233 (0) 302258250 VFS Global 9 Kakramada Road Cantonments Accra Telephone: +233 (0) 302746212 There are some branches of CAL bank that will also provide this registration service. Ask your local CAL bank branch if they can help you. Should you fail to obtain a non-citizen GhanaCard, it will be considered a criminal breach. For more information on obtaining a non-citizen GhanaCard, visit the National Identification Authority website at: https://nia.gov.gh. [Source – FCDO Foreign travel advice: Ghana, gov.uk]

Money In large towns, ATMs can be found readily, and will accept the majority of UK cards. Many hotels, guesthouses and certain shops in Ghana will accept credit cards, although often Mastercard is not accepted. Credit card fraud is a frequently perpetuated crime in Ghana. Be careful when using your cards in Ghana, and make sure you have contacted your card issuer before doing so as they may put a block on your account. You may exchange travellers’ cheques in large hotels, banks and bureaux de change. However, travellers’ cheques from some UK banks are not accepted. Ensure that you check with your bank prior to departure. [Source – FCDO Foreign travel advice: Ghana, gov.uk]

Local laws and customs Ghana is a deeply religious, conservative country. Although many people also hold progressive and modern beliefs, it is important that you show respect for traditional moral values. Ensure that if you are out in public, you are dressed modestly. Wearing military clothing, including camouﬂage, is forbidden in Ghana. Avoid becoming involved in drugs in any way. Ghana has severe penalties for drug-related offences. Even possessing small amounts of marijuana can result in prison sentences of over ﬁve years, and can involve a long and

costly legal process. It is not common for bail to be granted. Class A drugs such as cocaine are often laced with other substances and foreign visitors including British nationals have died after having taken these drugs. You should carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times and ensure that the original is stored somewhere safe. In Ghana, they do not tolerate lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Homosexual acts are not tolerated in Ghana and you could face a custodial sentence of between three and 25 years. Homophobia against the LGBT community can be encouraged by anti-LGBT hate speech perpetuated by religious leaders and government officials, on top of encouragement from a local media that often sensationalises homosexuality. A small gay community does exist, however most Ghanaians do not yet accept the existance of same-sex relationships. See the FCDO’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender foreign travel advice at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/lesbian-gaybisexual-and-transgender-foreign-traveladvice, before you travel. Do not take photographs near sensitive sites such as military installations and the airport. You must ask permission before taking a photograph of a building that has on-duty guards. Be vigilant against self-appointed officials who will attempt to charge you fees for taking photos of well-known sites of interest. Family law in Ghana is very different to that of the UK, especially the law surrounding child custody. [Source – FCDO Foreign travel advice: Ghana, gov.uk]

Safety and security Political situation In the Ghanaian capital, Accra, demonstrations that occur are usually peaceful and adequately policed. Occasionally, these protests occur at short notice and can therefore cause disruption. Ensure that you remain vigilant and avoid any demonstrations where possible. Monitor local media for up-to-date information and be sure to follow the advice given by local authorities. Crime Although visits to Ghana tend to be free from trouble, criminal activity including petty crime, opportunistic crime and violent robbery, burglary and assault involving weapons does occur. Ensure that you take sensible precautions in order to protect yourself against crime. Do not carry large sums of money or valuables with you, putting them in a hotel safe where possible is advisable. Be especially careful when withdrawing cash from ATMs. Be careful at public beaches, and avoid visiting them alone as theft can occur, as well as isolated incidents of violent crime and sexual assault in popular tourist areas. Whilst at the airport, ensure that your passport is always secure and do not leave your baggage unattended; theft of both luggage and travel documentation does occur at Kotoka International Airport and at hotels. All permanent airport staff wear an ID card that states their name and includes a photo. Any ID cards without a photo are not valid. Ensure you conﬁrm the identity of your driver by asking to see ID if you have requested to be collected from the airport. There have been incidents of British nationals being robbed by people pretending to be their drivers who have approached them before they reach the main arrivals area.

Street crime in Accra has increased. If you are visiting, be vigilant, especially during the night. Try not to travel alone and, if you can, avoid walking to and from your destination. There have been violent robberies carried out which have involved foreign nationals being attacked and robbed at gunpoint. Petty crime in Ghana has also increased. Incidences of pick pocketing, bag snatching and opportunistic theft have occured on some roads in Accra. The predominant risk areas named by the police are: Graphic Road, George Walker Bush Highway, Accra Mall Roundabout, Awudome Cemetery Road, Pokuase-Amasaman Road, Teshie-Nungua Road, Labadi beach area and the Kokrobite beach area. Be particularly careful when in these areas. You should keep your doors locked and windows closed. Should you be unfortunate enough to be caught up in an armed robbery, you are advised to comply with the attackers’ demands. If you are not perceived to be complying quickly or fully enough, you may be injured. It is unlikely that an armed robbery will occur during the day as they tend to be carried out at night, you should, however, ensure you are still vigilant, driving with your doors locked. At night and before you go out you should ensure that your windows and doors are locked and your accommodation is secured. Areas used by the international community living overseas have been burgled, including Airport Residential, Cantonments, Ridge and Kokrobite. Criminally motivated kidnapping in Accra, Takoradi and Kumasi has been reported in the media, including the capture of foreign nationals. These crimes can be carried out for ﬁnancial as well as political gain, or just be motivated purely by criminality. If you are

kidnapped, it is unlikely that the reason for your presence in the country will serve as protection or guarantee your safe release. The stance of the British Government has long been to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners would increase the risk of further hostage taking. Scams Scam artists in West Africa are increasingly targeting British nationals in numerous forms, for example, romance and friendship, business ventures, and work and employment opportunities. These scams can pose a great ﬁnancial risk to their victims. Be vigilant, and treat with caution any job offers, requests for funds, or business ventures proposed by someone from West Africa with whom you have had only online correspondence. You should make absolutely sure that any money you, your family or your friends send over to Ghana is not part of a scam. Thoroughly check that the person requesting the money is the one who will receive it. Ask whether the caller has reported an incident to the British High Commission Accra if someone contacts you claiming to be in distress. If a police officer contacts you after you believe you have been scammed when sending money to Ghana, ensure that this is not just another part of the scam. It is also possible that scam artists will use the identity of officials at the British High Commission Accra, so ensure that any emails you receive that seem to be from the British High Commission are veriﬁed by contacting them at: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ british-high-commission-accra#contact-us. Local travel Occasional local Chieftaincy, land disputes and political tension have led to isolated

incidents of inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest. The most at-risk areas are the Northern, Savannah, Northeast, Oti and Volta regions. Spontaneous outbreaks of localised civil unrest can occur and may become violent. If you are in these areas, remain vigilant, be cautious and listen to the advice given by the local authorities. Local police could impose curfews in this situation in order to contain the disruption. Curfews usually run from 7pm to 5am, but you should be sure to check as times can vary. The Ministry of the Interior may put out a press release with details, check their website for up-to-date information: https://www.mint.gov.gh/. If you are visiting the Upper West or Upper East regions, ensure that you keep up to date with developments in neighbouring countries. Check the FCDO Foreign travel advice website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-traveladvice/ghana for more information. Many of Ghana’s borders have no physical barriers, meaning that the security situation is susceptible to sudden changes. Make sure you take sensible precautions. In the Upper West, Northeast, Northern and Savannah regions, be aware that ﬂooding is common between March and November (rainy season). Ensure that you keep up to date by monitoring local weather reports, and be prepared for difficulties if you are travelling to affected areas during this period. Road travel You are allowed to drive in Ghana if you have an International Driving Permit or a local driving licence. A UK driving licence is not valid. However, your UK driving licence must be authenticated by the UK DVLA in order for you to be able to apply for a local driving licence from the Ghana DVLA. Ensure that you carry your driving licence or your International Driving Permit with you at all times when you are driving. The International Driving Permit will normally be valid for a year and you cannot renew it in Ghana. 79

The quality of the roads in Ghana tends to be fairly poor. In rural areas in particular they are predominantly in bad condition. You should avoid travelling by car outside of main towns after dark as the risk of accidents and robbery increases. If you see grass or leaves strewn across the road, this commonly means that there is an accident or some other kind of hazard up ahead. Should you decide to drive at night, be aware that impromptu police checkpoints exist. Taxi services in Ghana often offer poor levels of safety. You should also be aware that a number of isolated incidents involving crimes taking place inside a taxi, including licensed taxis, ‘Tro Tros’ and app-based taxi services, have occurred. It is recommended that you use licensed taxis if you do intend to travel by taxi and ensure that you check the driver’s ID and the condition and safety of the vehicle before you embark on your journey. You should not travel alone in a taxi after dark. There is no central licence system for drivers and vehicles of ‘Tro-Tros’ and app-based taxi services, unlike for official taxis. Driver training and safety standards will differ from services in the UK that are similar. Do not use ‘Tro-Tro’ services outside of major towns and cities. Air travel The FCDO are unable to provide advice about the safety of individual airlines. There is, however, a list published by the International Air Transport Association, that details registered airlines that have been audited and been found to meet a number of operational safety standards and recommended practices. It is important to know that this is not an exhaustive list and the absence of an airline from this list does not necessarily mean that it is unsafe. You can ﬁnd a list of recent accidents and incidents on the Aviation Safety Network's website, at: https://aviation-safety.net/. The International Civil Aviation Authority carried out an audit of the level of

implementation of the critical elements of safety oversight in Ghana in 2006. Sea travel It is known that there have been incidents of attacks against ships in and around the waters of Accra. Ensure that you are vigilant and take proper precautions. Swimming Beaches along the southern coast of Ghana are dangerous to swim in as a result of rip tides and undertows. You should avoid getting into the sea in these areas. Terrorism It is likely that terrorists will attempt to carry out attacks in Ghana. These attacks may be indiscriminate in nature. This includes attacks on places frequented by tourists and foreigners. The region faces a threat from terrorist groups associated with Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), Islamic State of Libya and Islamic State West Africa (ISWA). Both the capability and intent of this group have been proven as they have mounted attacks against security forces and civilians in several countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali. No recent attacks have taken place in Ghana, however, you should make sure that you remain vigilant, particularly in areas close to the northern border and in busy public spaces across the country, such as beach resorts, hotels, cafes, restaurants and places of worship. Globally, there is an increased risk of terrorist attacks against UK interests and British nationals, from groups and individuals motivated by the conﬂict in Iraq and Syria. Ensure that you are vigilant. Visit the FCDO Foreign travel advice website at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/reduceyour-risk-from-terrorism-while-abroad to ﬁnd out more about global threat from terrorism, how to minimise your risk and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. 80

Kidnapping In Ghana there is a threat of kidnap from groups originating in the Sahel, including groups who may travel across the region’s porous border such as Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-IM) and Daesh-affiliated groups. In areas bordering Sahel, the risk of kidnap is greater than elsewhere in the country. Terrorist groups have been known to kidnap foreigners, government officials and civilians in the region for ﬁnancial or political gain. If you are engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or in business sectors, you may be seen as a legitimate target for kidnappers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence in the country is unlikely to protect you or guarantee your safe release. The stance of the British Government has long been to not make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners would increase the risk of further hostage taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payment to terrorists illegal. [Source – FCDO Foreign travel advice: Ghana, gov.uk]

Natural disasters Earthquakes Ghana experiences periodic earthquakes and tremors that vary in magnitude. See the US Federal Emergency Management Agency’s website, at: https://www.fema.gov/ to ﬁnd out what to do before, during and after an earthquake. [Source – FCDO Foreign travel advice: Ghana, gov.uk]

Health Check the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s (NaTHNaC) advice on their TravelHealthPro website: https://travelhealth pro.org.uk/countries at least eight weeks before travelling to Ghana. The Ghanaspecific page has information regarding vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks within the country as well as a fact sheet with information on how to stay healthy abroad. See the NHS (Scotland)’s FitForTravel website: https://www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations.aspx and the NHS Choices’ website at: https://www.nhs.uk/ using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/ for further information. You can find general information about travel vaccinations, as well as a travel health checklist on the NHS website. You may want to consider contacting a health advisor or pharmacy for further information regarding preventative measures or advice on how to manage pre-existing medical conditions. Medicines that can be used in the UK may have a different legal status and regulations in Ghana. If you plan to travel with a prescription or over-the-counter medicine, the NaTHNaC has guidance on how to travel with medication: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/ medicines-abroad. You can also contact the British High Commission Accra to get advice on the legal status of certain medication: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ british-high-commission-accra#contact-us. Outside of major towns and cities, medical facilities tend to be of poor quality. Should you require serious medical treatment, medical evacuation will be required. Ensure that you have adequate travel health insurance as well as accessible funds to cover the cost of treatment and possible repatriation.

Isolated incidents of cholera and meningitis have been reported in Ghana. In particular there is a risk during the wet season. Ensure that you follow the advice and guidance of NaTHNaC: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/ country/89/ghana#Other_risks.

FCDO Foreign travel advice If you are travelling to Ghana for business, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website has travel advice to help you prepare for your visit overseas and to stay safe and secure while you are there.

Although travel is enjoyable, it can be challenging, so ensure you look after both your mental and physical health when abroad. More information regarding travelling with mental health conditions is available on the FCDO travel and mental health guidance page at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/foreign -travel-advice-for-people-with-mentalhealth-issues or from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC): https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/85/ travelling-with-mental-health-conditions.

For up-to-the-minute advice please visit the FCDO Foreign travel advice pages on the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/foreigntravel-advice/ghana. Travel insurance Make sure you have comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel, as well as accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. [Source – FCDO Foreign travel advice: Ghana, gov.uk]

COVID-19 Ghana is affected by the global outbreak of the coronavirus, COVID-19. Make sure you comply with all screening measures that local authorities have put into place, see: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ ghana/coronavirus, for more information. For more information when travelling during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, see the UK Government’s advice at: https:// www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-abroad-fromengland-during-coronavirus-covid-19.

Dawa – Ghana’s smart city LMI Holdings has impacted significantly on Ghana’s economy by providing access to litigation free land and associated ancillary services to attract both local and foreign investors into the industrial and manufacturing sector in Ghana. LMI Holding is a highly diversified Ghanaian conglomerate with a presence in the construction, land investments and development, real estate development, warehousing and logistics, utilities and ICT sectors in Ghana. Established in 1992, LMI Holdings has five subsidiaries: • John Murphy Group – general construction and engineering • Land Holdings and Investment GroupLand Holdings and Property Development (Dawa Industrial Zone and Tema Free Zone Enclave) • International Warehousing and Logistics Group • Patrick Murphy Homes- Affordable and middle-income housing. • Southern Utility Group – Electricity and water distribution, ICT/Telecoms.

With the Tema Free Zone Enclave almost full to capacity, LMI Holdings started work on the new world class 2000 acre Dawa Industrial Zone (DIZ). The DIZ is the focal point of a new 22,000 acre planned urban development initiated and completely funded by LMI Holdings. The DIZ is engaging relevant partners to establish enclaves for industries including: • Automotive Manufacturing and assembling • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing • Garment Manufacturing • Steel Fabrication • Cement Manufacturing • Food Processing • Warehousing and logistics. • Reliability and Quality of electricity is comparable to first world levels, with over 99 percent uptime • Easy access to the Tema port by road and rail • Container Terminal and Logistics Hub • Treated water and waste-water treatment • Complementary affordable housing • Fiber broadband data facilities • Availability of Skilled and Unskilled Labour LMI Holdings, privately funded and managed Dawa Industrial Park provides unparalleled advantages to the industrial investor. For more information visit www.diz-ghana.com Why Locate in Dawa: • Strategic and central location in West Africa, providing access to the Ecowas market of over 400 million people • Designed to accommodate both Free Zone and Non-Free Zone Enterprises

LMI Holdings Limited, 1 EL Senoussi Street, off Independence Avenue, Ridge-Accra. Contact numbers: +233 (0) 552030000, +233 (0) 552040000 E: enquiries@diz-ghana.com

Akosombo Hydroelectric Power Station

GHANA

Ghana was one of the first countries to implement widespread liberalisation in basic telecommunications services. The country embraces technology and sees the potential to generate growth and innovation in the sector.

SECTOR–SPECIFIC OPPORTUNITIES

CASE STUDY Shai-Osudoku Hospital, Ghana

REIDsteel are experts in the design and fabrication of high quality steel framed structures including cladding, glazing and door systems. We have shipped projects from our UK factor y in Christchurch, Dorset to over 140 countries worldwide. The Shai-Osudoku Hospital is situated in Dodowa (on the outskirts of Accra, Ghana) and was one of three hospital construction projects in Ghana that we were involved with in partnership with NMS Infra str uc ture Ltd. It ha s be e n designed with a low energy footprint, low capital expense and low running costs and the project was completed in 2016.

REIDsteel designed and detailed all the steelwork and cladding for the clinical hub and ward buildings as well as the entrance canopies and water tower. The steelwork, cladding, flashings, louvres etc were then fabricated in our factory.

During fabrication each steel piece is identified by a ‘Mark Number’ which identifies it on the erection drawings and unless otherwise requested has a label showing this and other production information. We have a comprehensive system of listing and checks so each piece can be accounted for in accordance with our ISO 9001 system and European CE Mark compliance. Small pieces are packed into crates or pallets, individually listed, numbered and labelled.

Packing labels show t h e c o n t r a c t n u m b e r, fabrication issue, assembly mark number, weight and the item number/quantity - in this example above it is denoting item 2 from a total of 6.

Once the fabrication and part labelling was complete, the steelwork, fixings and cladding were loaded into shipping containers and our Shipping Department organised their transportation to Ghana.

A Highly Commended Hospital The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified Shai-Osudoku District Hospital at Dodowa as a possible benchmark for other health facilities in Africa. WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, who completed a tour of district health facilities in April 2018 said that “This facility is unique and is setting the standard for the region and I am so impressed about everything here,” Additional REIDsteel hospitals... We are currently working on another five District Hospitals in Ghana with the main contractor - Vamed. Each site comprises of about 25 buildings var ying from staf f buildings to operating theatres, mortuaries etc. We designed each of the buildings using box sections for ease of erection and for hygiene - as less dust will build up on a box section than a universal beam. For this project we are responsible for design, fabrication and loading of the skeleton of all the buildings, but the cladding was provided by a different sub contractor and the shipping was completed by Vamed.

REIDsteel

SHED 191 LI

• ESTAB

FULLY CE COMPLIANT FOR EXECUTION CLASSES 1 TO 4 • BS EN ISO 9001:2015 • BS EN ISO 14001:2015 • BS EN ISO 45001:2018 JOHN REID & SONS (STRUCSTEEL) LTD trading as REIDsteel, REIDglazing & REIDmarine • Company Registration No: 617773

Century of structural steel design experience

Four times winner of The Queen's Award for Enterprise International Trade

SHED 191 LI

John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd, Strucsteel House, 3 Reid Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2BT England Tel: +44 (0) 1202 483333 • Fax: +44 (0) 1202 470103 • ESTAB 9 Email: sales@reidsteel.co.uk • Web: www.reidsteel.com Over a

Sector-speciﬁc opportunities

Opportunities in Ghana There are numerous opportunities for UK businesses across many sectors in Ghana including agriculture, education, ﬁnancial services, free zones, health, infrastructure, oil and gas, and tourism. Be aware that for most sectors, such as the oil and gas sector, you must work with a local partner. Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) trade specialists to ﬁnd local representatives for your products via: https://www.gov.uk/overseas-customersexport-opportunities. From its worldwide network, DIT can provide international export sales leads. Find export opportunities in Ghana at: https://www.great. gov.uk/export-opportunities/. For more information about opportunities and advice on doing business with Ghana contact DIT at: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us. Do not forget to check that your goods meet legal requirements for export, at the UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) (formerly known as the Export Control Organisation) at: https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/export-control-organisation. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, gov.uk, UKEF]

Government tenders The Ghanaian Public Procurement Authority,

established by the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663), was put into place to uphold Ghana’s Public Procurement Law. The Authority’s role is to make sure that public procurement is non-discriminatory, fair and transparent so that the local industry is competitive and foreign and Ghanaian investors and stakeholders remain interested and conﬁdent in the country’s public procurement processes. A list of open tenders already in Ghana can be seen via the Ghanaian Public Procurement Authority website at: http://tenders.ppa.gov. gh/tenders. See the Public Procurement Authority Ghana website at: https://ppa.gov.gh/# for more details regarding government tenders and public procurement. Partnering with a Ghanaian ﬁrm may improve your chance of success if applying for a government tender. Check with the DIT team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us for assistance and information about government tenders and use of third-party advisers. [Source – DIT, Public Procurement Authority Ghana]

Agriculture sector According to the World Bank, in 2018 the agriculture sector was estimated to be contributing around 18% of Ghana’s GDP. The sector is a major foreign exchange earner and is classed as the backbone of Ghana. In a recent report, the World Bank has claimed that Ghana could create a trillion-Dollar food market by 2030 through its farmers and agri-business. In order to do this, however, 94

the country must increase its quality of technology and electricity, access more capital and grow highly nutritious foods. There is room for improvement in this sector as a large amount of Ghana’s agricultural potential has not been utilised. The Ghanaian Government and the country’s major stakeholders are constantly looking for new ways to improve agri-business through the use of modern technology. Opportunities in the agriculture sector for UK companies can be found in the following areas: •

agro-processing industry (to add value, reduce post-harvest losses and expand demand)

•

fresh produce handling, such as establishment of commercial pack houses for the handling of fruits and vegetables

•

establishment of pulp paper and panel industries

•

establishment of wood plantations

•

provision of tree seedlings for plantation species

Opportunities also lie in technology, such as the production of tractors, ﬁshing equipment, laboratory equipment, factories and other infrastructure. According to the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)], the Ghanaian Government are encouraging foreign investors to help increase the productivity of its agriculture sector, especially those with new and innovative ideas on how to positively transform the sector.

•

processing agricultural products (cereal, fruit, vegetables, livestock and ﬁsheries)

Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the agriculture sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-trade-ghana #contact-us.

•

production of cash crops, horticultural crops and livestock for the national, regional and European Union (EU) markets

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, World Bank, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

•

production and improvement of seeds and agro-chemicals, such as fertilisers, pesticides and weedicides

•

ﬁsh farming

•

technological and support services

•

ﬂoriculture

•

production of veterinary drugs, vaccines and chemicals, feed and feed ingredients

•

production of wood and non-timber forest products (NTFP)

Education sector The Ghana Education Service (GES) was set up in order to create an educational environment that allows effective learning through efficient teaching. The GES looks towards its foreign investors and international organisations to support its desire to allow all children of school age to gain a high quality education that will allow them to enter the world of work and support the country’s economy.

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Due to this, UK education and training services are in demand in Ghana. If you are interested in entering the Ghanaian market’s education sector as a training company or an institution it is advised that you identify your main areas of focus as well as the types of delivery methods you have to offer.

opportunities have opened up for UK companies. These opportunities are aimed at those that can work with local businesses in: •

mobile ﬁnancial services

•

micro/agro insurance

Opportunities for UK companies include:

•

ﬁnancial technology (ﬁntech)

•

corporate training

•

collaboration with local universities

ﬁnance infrastructure development with public-private partnership (PPP) options and private equity/debt investments

•

skills training for the oil and gas sector

•

supply of educational products and services to public/private institutions

•

capacity building within the education sector

Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the education sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-trade-ghana #contact-us. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Education Service (GES)]

There are also a number of opportunities for UK companies that can offer ﬁntech services, especially those that are looking for partnerships in Ghana, or looking at training individuals and transferring their technology to Ghana. Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the ﬁnancial services sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-tradeghana#contact-us. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, World Bank]

Free zones Financial services sector In September 2018 the World Bank provided Ghana with an International Development Association (IDA) grant of US $30 million in order to enhance and strengthen its financial services sector. The grant is aimed at helping those that are financially excluded become financially stable, such as those in rural areas, farmers and women. It also aims to help those that use formal financial services. Due to this support, Ghana’s financial services sector continues to grow and investment

The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), was established in 1995 under the Free Zone Act 1995. GFZA aims to make Ghana a gateway to Western Africa through its accessible and attractive business environment. The competitiveness and efficiency of Ghana’s free zones allow it to interest domestic and foreign investors, leading to successful partnerships and enhancing the country’s economy. Export Processing Zones (EPZs) have been established under the Ghana Free Zones Programme, in order to process and

manufacture goods, as well as to encourage commercial and service activities at sea and airports. There are four free zones in Ghana. These include: •

Ashanti Technology Park (ATP)

•

Sekondi Export Processing Zone

•

Shama Export Processing Zone (Shama EPZ)

•

Tema Export Processing Zones

Ashanti Technology Park (ATP) The Ashanti Technology Park (ATP) is situated in the centre of Ghana, in Ejisu in the Ashanti Region. The area is known to hold a number of resources in large quantities such as: •

cocoa beans

•

timber and wood

•

leather ware

•

gold

•

tourist sites

There is the potential for partnerships with foreign investors at the Ashanti Technology Park in a number of industrial sectors including:

•

cocoa processing

•

light industrial manufacturing

•

heavy industrial manufacturing

•

warehousing and logistics services

•

ICT cyber village

•

social services centre

•

bio-technology development

As the free zone expands, opportunities are planned to appear in water production/ distribution, electricity generated from thermal and biomass plants, telecommunications infrastructure, data processing and call centre operations. Sekondi Export Processing Zone The Sekondi Export Processing Zone, in the west of Ghana, covers 2,200 acres. The free zone’s close proximity to Takoradi, the country’s second largest sea port, brings opportunities for further investment. The direct road link between Sekondi and Takoradi creates opportunities for heavy industrial activity. The zone is currently becoming an area of integrated industrial mineral processing. Shama Export Processing Zone (Shama EPZ) The Shama Export Processing Zone (Shama EPZ), known as a land bank, is located in Western Ghana in the Shama Ahanta East Metropolitan Area. Shama EPZ is an industrial park with the petrochemical sector being its main use. The zone’s proximity to the sea allows the reﬁnery and distribution of chemical produce and by-products, such as plastics, for export. Tema Export Processing Zones The Tema Export Processing Zones are located in one of Ghana’s most industrial cities, Tema. The EPZ covers around 1,200 acres and has the largest seaport in Ghana. Tema is fast-growing with a large, skilled workforce and well-developed infrastructure. Manufacturing, service and commercial exports thrive due to the free zones attractive and successful business environment.

There are a number of ways to do business in the Tema Export Processing Zones, such as buying/renting a factory, office space or land parcels. These options are available for foreign investors and business start-ups due to their up-to-date infrastructure such as drainage and electricity connections. The area is also directly linked to an airport and seaport. The Tema Export Processing Zones also have many off site facilities that also offer opportunities for UK companies, such as: •

the country’s electrical power grid

•

a large water reservoir

•

central sewerage system

•

telecommunication services

•

security enclosures

Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on Ghana’s free zones: https://www.gov.uk/ world/organisations/department-forinternational-trade-ghana#contact-us. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA)]

Health sector Ghana’s health sector is split into three different levels: national, regional and district. The quality of the services in these three levels is maintained by Ghana’s Ministry of Health. In recent years, Ghana’s health sector has witnessed signiﬁcant investment in its infrastructure.

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The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) established under the National Health Insurance Act 2003, is ﬁnancially pivotal for the country’s health sector. However they do not have complete control, therefore there are opportunities for UK insurance ﬁrms to enter the market and offer an alternative health insurance. Several opportunities for UK companies exist, including in the following areas: •

drugs and pharmaceuticals

•

research and development facilities

•

hospital equipment

•

laboratories

•

health centres

•

hospitals and clinics

•

accident and emergency services

•

rehabilitation

•

Ministry of Health medical education and training

•

ICT hospital management

•

hospital waste management

•

maternity homes

•

elderly and residential care

Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the health sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-trade-ghana# contact-us.

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ministry of Health, Ghana, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

ICT sector Ghana was one of the ﬁrst countries to implement widespread liberalisation in basic telecommunications services. The country embraces technology and sees the potential to generate growth and innovation in the sector. In comparison to its West African neighbours, Ghana’s ICT sector is well established and there is an increasing demand for ﬁntech and multimedia services. As a result, there are numerous service providers including mobile network operators, dealers of communications equipment and broadcasting stations. The sector sees much competition, especially in the telecom subsector. There are six mobile operators registered in the country, and as of December 2018, the total penetration rate was 138.88%. The Ministry of Communications is supporting a number of science and technology parks throughout the country in order to support emerging technologies. There are numerous opportunities for UK businesses in the ICT sector, for example: •

connecting international voice calls to the local public network

•

providing public internet access, especially in rural areas, at less cost

•

establishing radio and television broadcasting in the country

•

providing software for the country

100

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•

extending the broadband network to reach the whole country and to provide computer access to rural students

•

education in software development, networking, VSAT, telecommunication and IT engineering

•

producing business solution (software and networking services)

•

business processing outsourcing

•

supplying high-tech telecommunication equipment

•

manufacturing, assembling and supplying computers and accessories

•

logistics management services and medical transcription services

Ghana’s energy sector predominantly consists of hydroelectricity, thermal energy fueled by crude oil, natural gas and diesel and solar power. Ghana also exports power to Togo, Benin and Burkina Faso. Current grid expansions will allow Ghana to export to other neighbouring countries in the sub region. Both the public and private sector are involved in Ghana's energy generation since reforms in the 1980s removed barriers preventing private sector participants. The installed capacity for existing plants in Ghana is 4,420 MW. This breaks down to around 36% hydro, 64% thermal and less than 1% solar. Ghana intends to increase its installed generation capacity to 5,000 MW .

Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the ICT sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us.

The country also has numerous renewable energy sources that have not yet been taken advantage of, such as biomass, hydropower potentials, wind potentials along the coast and high solar irradiation. Ghana aims to increase renewable energy’s contributions to power from 1% to 10%.

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

There are multiple opportunities for UK companies wishing to invest in Ghana’s energy sector, including:

Infrastructure sector In recent years, Ghana’s infrastructure spending has signiﬁcantly increased following the adoption of a PPP approach to ﬁnancing development. Energy and electricity The electricity infrastructure in Ghana is in need of improvement. The country currently has temperamental energy distribution which causes frequent power outages.

•

providing solar energy systems to off-grid schools

•

providing off-grid communities with quality electricity in order to fulﬁll the goal of 100% universal electriﬁcation

•

renewable energy development

•

material and equipment supply

•

expanding street lighting

•

improving coverage

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•

providing a more efficient service

•

energy-monitoring equipment

•

sustainable energy

There are also several incentives for those investing in the energy sector: •

customs duty exemption for plant, machinery and equipment imported for investment purposes

•

a corporate tax rate of 25%

•

location incentives (between 25 and 50%) for industries located in and outside the regional capitals

Water The water infrastructure in Ghana at the moment is not sufficient. In rural areas in particular, major investment is necessary to improve the standards of water supply and sanitation. The Ghanaian Government intend to extend the coverage of efficient water supply as well as to improve the current infrastructure. Opportunities for UK businesses include: •

expanding access to drinkable water throughout the country

•

network expansion to rural areas of the country

•

creating point sources, small towns pipe schemes, rain harvest plants and house hold/institutional latrines

•

providing equipment and materials

Harbours Ghana currently has two commercial ports, Tema, and Takoradi. There is a third currently

under construction at Boankra. There has been a recent sudden increase in the amount of cargo passing through Tema, thus, an expansion of the port is currently underway. The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority are currently working with Meridian Port Services in order to complete the US $1.5 billion ﬁrst phase. Recently completed development projects include: •

a new reefer terminal

•

a four berth bulk jetty

•

a one-stop service revenue and data centre

•

the refurbishment of the transit terminal

•

the electronic gating system

The smaller Takoradi port has also seen an increase of traffic in recent years from 485 in 2003 to 1,525 calls in 2015. A short term development project is underway at the port, expected to cost around US $50 million. This redevelopment involves dredging the area; reclaiming land; relocating the cocoa shed to somewhere outside of the port; constructing around 500 m quay walls, a 600 m oil berth, a water hydrant, offices, oil storage tanks and oil production materials storage. There is now a need to construct a new port in Ghana. The inland port currently in progress at Boankra is expected to serve cargo owners needing access to the north of Ghana. Railways Ghana’s rail network is currently 950 km long, linking Kumasi, Takoradi and Accra-Tema. The government plans to create a more extensive rail network in order to increase the railway’s cargo capacity. Plans are also underway to

104

privatise the Ghana Railways Corporation to provide a greater capacity for haulage of petroleum products and containers. There is also a project in development that will create railway links between the suburbs of Accra and the central business district as well as between the north and south of the country in order to serve Ghana’s landlocked northern neighbours. Air travel Ghana’s open skies policy means that it is free of many of the constraints placed on the capacity, route, frequency and structure of air travel. This means that many international carriers regularly ﬂy to Kotoka International Airport in Accra. The Ghanaian Government is working towards making the country a gateway into the rest of West Africa. Kotoka International Airport is currently the main airport in the sub-region. Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the infrastructure sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-tradeghana#contact-us. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

Oil and gas sector Ghana is one of the newer oil and gas producing nations in Africa. Its current output is 126,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd). The country is home to four major oil and gas fields: the Jubilee fields, the Tweneboa-Enyenra-Ntomme (TEN) fields and Sakofa-Gye-Nyame fields.

Production on the Tweneboa, Enyenra and Ntomme ﬁelds began production in August of 2016, with the Sankofa, Gye and Nymae ﬁelds starting in the following year. The breakdown of the current 126,000 bopd production rate is: •

Jubilee ﬁelds - 3,000 bopd

•

TEN ﬁelds - 50,000 bopd

•

Sankofa-Gye-Nyame ﬁelds - 45,000 bopd

The Jubilee discovery occurred in 2007 and marked the start of Ghana’s identity as an oil and gas producer. Since this discovery, around 24 more oil and gas discoveries have been made across Ghana. There are numerous opportunities for UK companies, including: •

basin modeling

•

geological studies

•

geochemical studies

•

geographical studies

•

equipment supply

•

supply of casings for boreholes

•

reservoir engineering

•

ﬁeld development contractor ﬁnancing

•

reﬁneries maintenance

•

petroleum products haulage or marketing

•

production, transmission, or distribution of natural gas

106

•

domestic natural gas sales and distribution

•

compressed natural gas as an automotive fuel, gas to liquid conversion (GTL), methanol, etc.

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

There are also numerous incentives for companies wishing to invest in Ghana’s tourism sector: •

a reduced corporate tax rate of 22%

•

10% concessionary rate on imported goods that are for tourist establishments

•

import duty exemptions for plant and machinery

Tourism sector The tourism sector in Ghana has seen signiﬁcant investment in recent years. Over the last four years alone, there has been over US $600 million of investments. This sector is the 5th highest foreign exchange earner for the country. Current projects taking place within the tourism sector, all of which provide opportunities for UK businesses, include: •

a four year tourism development programme devised by the Ministry of Tourism with the aim of developing tourist sites and destinations. It is hoped that the programme will increase Ghana’s international arrivals by 300,000

•

the marine drive project, a 241 acre development project that will become a mixed use tourism enclave. This will provide opportunities for UK companies wishing to get involved in the establishment of high quality hotels, restaurants and beach resorts

•

the Akwaaba Hotels project, a PPP initiative by the Ministry of Tourism to help build and operate good quality, affordable tourist accommodation across Ghana

107

Contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana for more information on the tourism sector: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-trade-ghana# contact-us. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

A Bri�sh Educa�on in Ghana The Owls’ Nest Interna�onal School is a child centred environment, where every student ma�ers. With students represen�ng over 35 diﬀerent na�ons, we are proud of our interna�onal and mul�-cultural ethos. Your child’s educa�on should be an enriching experience that inspires a life-long love of learning and enquiry. We provide: AN EXCELLENT FOUNDATION BRITISH CURRICULUM - EYFS & KEY STAGE ONE INSPIRATIONAL AND INTERACTIVE TEACHING METHODS – INCLUDING STEM ACTIVITIES SMALL CLASS SIZES GREAT TEACHER TO STUDENT RATIOS EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND AWARENESS

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One of the 昀rst concerns that parents have when working overseas, is the availability and standard of schools for their children. Founded by a Bri�sh lecturer in 2007 and a combina�on of UK and local teachers, the school has developed an excellent reputa�on in Ghana. The Owl’s Nest Interna�onal School (ONIS) is one of a few Bri�sh owned establishments, implemen�ng the Bri�sh Curriculum from the Early Years Founda�on Stage (EYFS), through to the end of Key Stage One 16 months – 7 years. With our 昀exible admissions policy, children can be admi琀ed to school throughout the academic year. Educa�ng other people's children is a privilege as well as a huge responsibility. At ONIS, our aim is to prepare children for ‘a life�me love of learning’ and academic success. Our students consistently achieve high standards, giving many of them access to top ranking independent schools, where they are said to make a ‘seamless transi�on’ either in Ghana or in other countries around the world. ONIS has a reputa�on that is second to none in this age range. We have built strong rela�onships with key Ghana government ministries, numerous diploma�c missions, corporate industries, as well as local and expatriate communi�es.

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Tes�monials “The school gave my son (now 5½ and my daughter nearly 8) the best educa�onal start they could possibly have. Having returned to the UK system we truly realise how fortunate they have been to have begun their educa�onal years in Ghana. They have both been able to slip into the UK system without any major surprises. I would resoundingly recommend this school to any parent. “

-Sarah & Garnet Bell Former Bri�sh High Commission, Ghana “Our family could not have been more pleased with our choice of The Owl's Nest school for our son. I especially like how present the Administra�on is in the daily running of the school and how a琀en�ve the Faculty was toward my son's success at The Owl's Nest. Our son was not only well prepared to enter Kindergarten but was ahead of his peers in many areas. Thank you Owl's Nest!”

-The Parkinson Family US Embassy, Ghana “My daughter started her school life at the Owl's Nest in 2016 at the age of 3 years, un�l end of 2019 at the age of 7years. These have been the most amazing years for her. At the age of 7 she has the learning capacity of a 9 year old according to assessments conducted at her new school and it’s all thanks to Owl's Nest who set the founda�on for her. She speaks with con昀dence and makes friends easily. We will forever be grateful to Owl's Nest for the role they have played in shaping her into the intelligent and con昀dent young girl that she is. I would recommend the school to any parent in Ghana and given a chance, I would choose the Owl's Nest all over again.” -Mpume Hlela South African High Commission, Ghana theowlsnest@live ve.co.uk

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Port of Tema

GHANA

Rather than export directly, it may be easier to work with a Ghanaian partner or advisor. They will be more familiar with the business environment in Ghana.

112

PREPARING TO EXPORT

Hollard is Ghana’s Favourite Insurer The Ghanaian insurance industry is evolving. The market was overhauled with the 2006 Insurance Act, which introduced comprehensive legisla�on designed to effec�vely administer and supervise the industry and provide be�er policyholder protec�on. Eleven years down the line, Ghana’s insurance regulator, the Na�onal Insurance Commission unveiled its four primary policy goals: increasing the role of insurers in the broader financial sector, with greater investment of funds in the bond market; improving claims payment systems; boos�ng penetra�on in the informal sector; and passing new legisla�on in 2018 to improve the commission’s enforcement and oversight. This �es in with the country’s overarching goals to extend the role and strength of the na�on’s financial and capital markets sector. Central to this process is the passage of a new Insurance Bill. With both the regulator and the government pushing towards an ambi�ous target of 10 percent penetra�on, the coming years should see the insurance market become a larger and more central part of the Ghanaian economy. (Gold Street Business, 2019)

Hollard Ghana is the standout; combining deep local knowledge with international expertise Things are compe琀琀ve in the burgeoning industry. Out of 22 life insurance companies, 29 non-life insurance companies, and 3 reinsurance companies, one challenger stands out. Hollard Ghana, with its Life and Non-life business posi琀ons

its deep local knowledge of the market with the world-class exper琀se of an interna琀onal insurance brand. The group is part of Hollard Interna琀onal, headquartered in South Africa and which manages the interna琀onal por琀olio of the Hollard Group currently opera琀ng in 18 countries in Africa and Asia. Hollard Ghana has feet ﬁrmly planted on Ghanaian soil having operated successfully as Metropolitan Insurance Company (MET) for 25 years before becoming Hollard Insurance Ghana in 2015; adding on Hollard Life Assurance Ghana in 2018.

An unconventional insurance company at the forefront of the competitive evolution. Hollard Ghana is purpose driven. The group seeks to enable more people to create and secure a be琀er future by delivering with excellence for its customers and partners. It is an outstanding brand because Hollard Ghana does well by doing good. It’s the Hollard Way. With its triple-win strategy, Hollard Ghana desires the best interests of everyday Ghanaians and corporates, providing them with innova琀ve insurance solu琀ons customised to the unique risks they face. The group proudly treats everyone with care and dignity. An act reﬂected in its fast claims process which endears it to its customers and has built its credibility over the years. For its partners, Hollard Ghana collaborates to put the customer at the heart of everything they do while achieving excep琀onal, sustainable and inclusive growth for its businesses. Indeed, the group’s purpose underscores its inten琀on to become the country’s favourite insurer. Last year, the impressive progress Hollard Ghana made was rewarded by its general insurance business moving up to number three posi琀on in the industry. The group an琀cipates that the next decade will

be driven by a customer-first and digital-only mindset and it is are gearing up for it. As current trends show, by 2030 Ghanaians will have transi琀oned fully to expect everything on-demand, and via digital. Today, they face challenges looking for tradi琀onal offices to process their insurance needs. Some, who are uninsured, may never sign-up for policies because it’s inconvenient. Hollard Ghana is ac琀vely changing that by pushing the boundaries and making innova琀on the standard. By inves琀ng in innova琀ve products and diversified distribu琀on channels such as its Hollard-on-the-go booths at Shell sta琀ons, the group is exploring organic growth opportuni琀es to bring insurance closer to Ghanaians. Making accessibility a standard of service delivery will become the yards琀ck of innova琀on led by Hollard Ghana. A digitally-inclined company, Hollard Ghana believes its ability to process policies and pay claims promptly requires efficiency in opera琀ons. The strength of its service offering is matched by its commensurate use of cu ng-edge technology such as enterprise so昀ware. The group makes frequent automa琀on, updates and enhances to its systems and distribu琀on networks because it believes this makes a posi琀ve difference.

Cer琀fied a top employer in Ghana and Africa, Hollard Ghana is recognised as a progressive employer, and are keen to con琀nue a琀rac琀ng and retaining the best talent while driving a high-performance culture. It’s a goal tailored by strategic workforce planning, talent strategy, on-boarding, learning & development, performance management, leadership development, career & succession management, compensa琀on & benefits, and culture. Hollard Ghana believes insurance is a social good and an enabler of progress. Providing insurance itself is an effort to support people in their 琀me of need. It’s not just about profits for the group, it’s about crea琀ng real, meaningful progress for more people. Its corporate social responsibility is inten琀onal. It’s founded on social investment and shared value hence its focus on financial inclusivity through its flagship programme, Hollard Streetwise Finance. Inadequate financial literacy is a snare in the poverty trap – with its Streetwise Finance ini琀a琀ve, Hollard Ghana regularly organises workshops with ter琀ary students, and the informal sector to teach basic financial management and entrepreneurial skills. This empowers them to make be琀er financial decisions; consequently, providing them with a be琀er future. Hollard Ghana’s ambi琀ons are buoyed by a physical brand that stands out from the typically dull and corporate insurance compatriots. The group’s unconven琀onal brand is playful, aptly portraying its approachable and quirky nature. Its predominant purple, and secondary colours orange, aqua and gold provide a vibrant canvas through which it relates using Ghanaian-inspired illustra琀ons, photography and iconography. In a world of worry and concern the group communicates to make people smile but ul琀mately being serious

when it ma琀ers most. Hollard Ghana insures people, everyone and everything they love so they can go about their lives stress-free knowing their companies have them covered. 2020 is Hollard Ghana’s year of accelera琀on and the insurance group is on the move! It’s achieving excep琀onal, sustainable and inclusive growth by partnering to deliver the triple win for its customers, its partners and itself.

References Hollard Ghana Holdings Ltd Hollard Life Assurance Ltd Hollard Insurance Ghana Gold Street Business, Changing shape of Ghana’s Insurance Industry Na�onal Insurance Commission www.nicgh.org

Preparing to export

Consultation and bespoke research A range of information for exporters can be found online, including advice and guidance on how to research overseas markets thoroughly. For more information visit: https://www.great.gov.uk/. Researching the Ghanaian market Make regular visits to Ghana, and make contact with others in your industry/sector that are already in Ghana. This will keep you updated on all advice and information, and can give you a new understanding of the country. At the very least, this can help you form the foundation for further research. For more information and guidance on how to develop your marketing strategy, competitor and SWOT analyses and customer/market segmentation, visit: https://www.great.gov.uk. The IOE&IT can also help with this: https://www.export.org.uk/. You need to make sure that there is a market for your product/service, if your pricing is competitive, whether you will need to change your product in terms of its packaging or marketing, and whether you need to adapt your business model. The questions listed here should help to focus your thoughts. Your answers to them will highlight areas for further research and also suggest a way forward that is right for your company. You may then want to use this as a basis for developing a formal strategy, although this may not be necessary or appropriate for all companies:

Your aims: • Do you wish to buy from Ghana, sell to Ghana or both? •

Do you wish to establish your own company presence in Ghana, or consider for example direct sales, licensing or franchising?

•

Do you need to be involved in Ghana at all?

•

Do you see Ghana as part of a wider plan including e.g. other African markets, now or in the future?

Your company: • Can you carry out a detailed SWOT analysis of your company? •

Are your competitors already in Ghana? If so, what are they doing?

•

Can you carry out a detailed SWOT analysis of your competitors?

•

What are the Unique Selling Points (USPs) of your product or service?

•

Do you know if there is a market for your product or service in Ghana?

•

Do you know if you can be competitive in Ghana?

•

Do you have the time and resources to handle e.g. the demands of communication, travel, product delivery and after-sales service?

116

Your knowledge: • Do you know how to secure payment for your products or service? •

Do you know how to locate and screen potential partners, agents or distributors?

•

Have you carried out any Ghana-speciﬁc customer segmentation, and do you know how to best reach potential customers in-market?

It is unlikely that you will have the answers to all these questions at the outset and these ‘knowledge gaps’ could form the basis for further research and investigation. Some of these questions will require quantitative research in your sector, while others involve more contextual and cultural considerations. Talking to other people in your industry and regularly visiting Ghana will give you access to the most current advice and such experience can often lead to new insights and form the basis for further research. Export plan You will need to create an export plan after you have carried out your initial research, which will identify your best route into the Ghanaian market. Guidance on developing an export plan, including marketing strategy, customer segmentation, competitor and SWOT analyses, etc. is available on the https://www.great.gov.uk/advice/create-anexport-plan/how-to-create-an-export-plan/ site, and also on the Institute of Export’s Open to Export site at: https://opentoexport.com/ info/export-action-plan/. Trade shows held in Ghana each year are a way for you to test whether your product/ service would be viable in the Ghanaian market. The UK’s Department for International Trade (DIT) provides funding in the form of grants via the Tradeshow Access Programme that allows eligible businesses to attend overseas trade shows. 117

This funding helps businesses to gain the most out of overseas trade shows, including market knowledge, experience and advice from trade experts. Visit: https://www.gov.uk/ guidance/tradeshow-access-programme for more information. For information on future events and trade missions in Ghana, visit the DIT events portal at: https://www.events.great.gov.uk/ ehome/index.php?eventid=200183029&. For company launches and events held at British High Commission locations, contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us. [Source – DIT, gov.uk]

Companies that are partly or fully owned by foreigners must register with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) after they have received their certiﬁcate of incorporation. The GIPC works to encourage and promote investment into Ghana in all sectors of the economic market, with the exception of mining and petroleum. Registering your company is only completed once you have met all of the minimum equity requirements. For more information on this, visit the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) website at: https://gipc.gov.gh/. Any investor producing goods/services that will have at least 70% of its total output exported is able to take advantage of Ghana’s Free Zones Act. They can also locate their business within the free zone enclaves at Tema or Sekondi.

Start-up considerations There are a number of ways in which you can enter the Ghanaian market. These include:

These free zones have several privileges for registered free zone enterprises, such as exemptions from:

•

direct exports

•

tax on imports into the free zone

•

a joint venture

•

duty

•

appointing a local distributor

•

other taxes on exports to foreign countries

•

registering as a foreign company

Before you enter into any agreement, contact the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/ world/organisations/department-forinternational-trade-ghana#contact-us. DIT will be able to help you ﬁnd a tax and legal advisor who can give you more information and guidance on setting up a business in Ghana.

If you are a UK company wanting to invest in Ghana, you must register with the Registrar General’s Department: https://rgd.gov.gh/. The Registrar General’s Department is a department of the Ministry for Justice and Attorney General, established to provide efficient and effective registration and administration services including the registration of businesses, industrial property and marriages; administration of estates, and public trustees, as well as to provide accurate data for national planning. Following a company’s registration, a certiﬁcate of incorporation and a certiﬁcate to commence business are issued.

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Registrar General’s Department, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

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Distributorship agreement Rather than export directly, it may be easier to work with a Ghanaian partner/representative or advisor. They will be more familiar with the business environment in Ghana and should be able to help with: •

keeping in contact with customers

•

seeking new business

•

getting information on the latest market trends

Before choosing an agent or distributor, research several potential associates, visit the market numerous times and make sure you are positive you have made the best choice for your company. Make sure you check their reputation, marketing ability and resources. Be aware of those who promote similar or the same products/services as you. The Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us can assist you in locating and meeting potential agents and distributors for your products in Ghana. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Direct exports and sales When you directly export, you must take care of the logistics of marketing, selling and sending your products or services overseas, and getting paid. If you plan to sell your goods/services online to potential Ghanaian purchasers, or you are responding to enquiries, this may be the most viable option. Further information on selling directly overseas can be found at: https://www.great.gov.uk/ advice/deﬁne-route-to-market/direct-sales/.

Online selling DIT can help to ﬁnd suitable online marketplaces for your product/service. They can also help to access preferential government deals. The Department for International Trade (DIT) can help you export your goods to Ghana through the E-Exporting Programme. Find out more at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ selling-online-overseas-with-the-digitalexporting-programme. DIT has also negotiated listings at betterthan-commercial rates. See online marketplaces in Ghana at: https://www.great. gov.uk/selling-online-overseas/. Franchising Franchises in Ghana are due to foreign franchisors selling brand licences to franchisees. This means that these franchisees can operate under a franchise’s brand name. For more information on franchising visit the international section of the British Franchise Association at: http://www.thebfa.org/ international. [Source – British Franchise Association, DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Consumer protection If you are selling to consumers (rather than businesses), you should ensure that you comply with relevant consumer protection laws which guarantee consumer rights when buying goods and services. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Professional indemnity insurance You may require professional indemnity insurance if you provide a service and need to protect yourself against negligence claims from clients or third parties in Ghana.

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See the Association of British Insurers (ABI) website at: https://www.abi.org.uk/productsand-issues/choosing-the-right-insurance/ business-insurance/liability-insurance/ professional-indemnity-insurance/ for further information, or alternatively, contact the DIT team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us for further advice, and for contacts of local insurers or specialist brokers if appropriate. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Financial considerations Getting ﬁnance to fulﬁl an export contract Globally, Ghana ranks 80th out of 190 economies for ease of ‘Getting Credit’, in the World Bank’s Doing Business report 2020. See: https://www.doingbusiness.org/en/ data/exploreeconomies/ghana.

Contact one of UKEF’s export finance advisers at: https://www.gov.uk/government/ publications/find-an-export-finance-manager for free and impartial advice on your insurance options, or contact one of UKEF’s approved export insurance brokers at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications /uk-export-finance-insurance-list-of-approved -brokers/export-insurance-approved-brokers. Currency risks when exporting to Ghana In order to fix your price, it is essential to fix your exchange rate. When negotiating any contract, it is therefore important to consider whether to agree financial terms in Pounds Sterling (GBP), US Dollars (USD) or Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). It is advisable to seek expert financial advice on exchange rates (FX). [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

There are schemes available for UK companies that wish to sell their products/services to Ghana. These schemes are to help simplify the growth of your business and can also help you to fulfil an export contract. For up-to-date information regarding current schemes, contact your bank or financial adviser. Payment risks UKEF can help UK companies to get paid for the products and services they export by insuring against buyer default. Before exporting, make sure you are confident you will be paid as you may face difficulty when obtaining foreign exchange.

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GHANA

Ghana’s business and legal systems are very similar to those carried out in the UK. There are a number of regulatory laws and acts that provide a framework in which businesses can operate. These laws and acts are regulated by different agencies.

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HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH GHANA

How to do business with Ghana

Legal considerations When doing business in Ghana it is also very important to understand legal risks. Like transactions anywhere else in the world, it is important to structure and document transactions to eliminate, transfer or reduce those risks. Doing so often requires both legal and practical measures. Ghana’s business and legal systems are very similar to those carried out in the UK. Like most Anglophone countries, Ghana still carries the inheritance of its colonial past and is based on English common law. As a result, English legal principles such as “caveat emptor” (buyer beware) apply. It is therefore important to (i) conﬁrm local law implications for your transactions and (ii) ensure that you structure your transactions so that they are robust, safe and ﬂexible. There are a number of laws and regulations that provide a framework in which businesses can operate in Ghana. These laws and regulations are regulated by different agencies, including: •

Registrar General’s Department: https://www.rgd.gov.gh/

•

Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC): https://gipc.gov.gh/

•

Ghana Immigration Service (GIS): https://home.gis.gov.gh/

•

Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA): https://gra.gov.gh/

•

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): http://www.epa.gov.gh/epa/

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•

Ghana Free Zones Board: https://gfzb.gov.gh/

•

Petroleum Commission Ghana: https://www.petrocom.gov.gh/

•

Minerals Commission Ghana: http://www.mincom.gov.gh/

•

National Communications Authority: https://www.nca.org.gh/

Regulatory issues can be time consuming and sometimes have political overlays, therefore you should draw up a checklist very early in the process and where relevant it is advisable to focus on starting the applications process at the beginning of your transaction. At a very early stage also obtain advice on which regulators you are/will be dealing with and the best strategies for dealing with them. Contact the DIT team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-trade-ghana #contact-us or Oriol Associates: info@ oriolassociateas.co.uk for further advice and guidance on legal and tax advice before entering into agreements. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Local content laws Local content generally refers to the proportion of locally produced materials, employees, ﬁnancing, goods and services that are provided to the oil and gas industry and local participation refers to the level of Ghanaian ownership particularly in companies in the oil and gas industry. (See: https://www.petrocom. gov.gh/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/13Local-Content-and-Local-ParticipationRegulations-L_I-2204.pdf).

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Ghana has introduced local content requirements with the aim of increasing local participation in companies. They take various forms including: •

preferential access to state procurement contracts

•

concessionary licences based on joint ventures with locals and locally run companies

•

reservation of speciﬁc areas of commerce, trade and industry

In Ghana working with the right local partners is paramount. Many overseas companies, however, shy away from the idea of local partnerships for many reasons. Yet the importance of strategic local partnerships cannot be understated. Carrying out thorough due diligence on a potential local partner before teaming up with them is essential. This can be done through both formal and informal channels such as company searches, desktop research, local contacts and your professional advisors such as local law and consulting ﬁrms. It is also important to structure and formalise your partnership arrangements upfront so that you can walk away quickly and cost-effectively if the partnership does not succeed. Standards and technical regulations Ghana Standards Authority’s Standards Directorate develops, publishes and promotes standards that are in accordance with the Standards Decree of 1973 (NRCD 173). The Directorate is made up of sector departments including the Food, Agriculture, Chemistry and Material Standards Department and the Engineering and Basic Standards Department.

The Directorate is responsible, amongst other things, for the development of national standards and the adoption of international standards. These allow the industry in Ghana to remain competitive and increase its global trade. There are several beneﬁts for Ghanaian consumers due to the standards that are put into place including: •

consumer protection

•

promotion and protection of the interests of consumers, industry and businesses

•

improvements in quality and reliability of goods and services

•

improved operation and compatibility between products and services

•

availability of effective consumer redress is ensured

•

enabling easier consumer access to, and a greater choice of, goods and services

The Directorate also promulgates a number of standards that beneﬁt SMEs including lower start-up costs, assistance in reaching the mandatory regulations, the opening of new markets and creates competitive advantages. For more information regarding standards and technical regulations visit the Ghana Standards Authority’s website: https://www. gsa.gov.gh/. [Source – Ghana Standards Authority]

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Labelling your products For goods that are to be consumed such as drugs and food, labelling requirements are determined by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority. Labels must contain the following information:

For items not for consumption, the Ghana Standards Authority states that labels must contain the following information: •

a description of the nature or kind of good and the name

•

the name of the product and/or the generic name/INN/INCI

•

production batch code marks or numbers

•

a list of all of the active ingredients, and if it is medication you should use the INN/INCI or IUPAC system with dosage amount in each item

•

manufacture date

•

best before/expiry date

•

net mass or volume

•

dimensional mass and volume characteristics

•

any electro technical or chemical characteristics

•

any special storage conditions or handling precautions

•

net content of the container

•

batch number

•

manufacture date

•

best before/expiry date

•

directions for use

•

any warnings or precautions

•

instructions or directions for use warnings and precautions

•

special storage conditions or handling precautions

•

country of origin

•

frequency, route and conditions of use

•

names of any excipients that could be a safety concern

name and address of the producer, manufacturer, importer, distributor or seller

•

the manufacturer’s and distributor’s name, postal address and premises address

•

country of origin

For more information see the Food and Drugs Authority website: https://fdaghana. gov.gh/.

For more information see the Ghana Standards Authority website: https://www.gsa.gov.gh/. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana Standards Authority]

Product liability insurance Product liability insurance covers the cost of compensation for anyone injured by a faulty product. If you design, manufacture or supply a physical product that is sold or given away for free, you should consider taking out product liability insurance. 136

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See the Association of British Insurers (ABI) website at: https://www.abi.org.uk/productsand-issues/choosing-the-right-insurance/ business-insurance/liability-insurance/ product-liability-insurance/ for further information, or alternatively contact the DIT team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/ organisations/department-for-internationaltrade-ghana#contact-us for contacts of local insurers or specialist brokers. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Controlled goods export licences for Ghana Ghana is a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). See the ECOWAS website for information: https://www.ecowas.int/. Exportation of small arms and light weapons, components and ammunition from the UK to ECOWAS countries is banned. The UK will only allow an exporting licence for these items if exceptions have been made by the ECOWAS Commission. For more information visit: https://www.gov. uk/guidance/arms-embargo-on-westafrican-states. [Source – DIT, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)]

Taxation Ghana and the UK signed a double taxation treaty for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of ﬁscal evasion with respect to income tax, corporation tax and capital gains tax in both countries as well as petroleum tax and mineral and mining taxes in Ghana. This allows certain taxes paid in one country to be deducted from taxes due

in the other, so should prevent any double tax liability from UK and Ghanaian authorities over the same income. See: https://www. gov.uk/government/publications/ghana-taxtreaties. Any company that is managed from Ghana or is incorporated in Ghana must register with the relevant tax authorities. Any company or individual paying tax in Ghana must apply for a Taxpayer Identiﬁcation Number (TIN). This number is unique to each taxpayer and is free to apply for from the Ghana Revenue Authority. It is an offence if you do not register for a number. It is of signiﬁcant importance that you apply for a TIN as without one you cannot do the following in Ghana: •

•

do business with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)

•

open a bank account

•

get a passport

•

clear goods from a port or airport

•

ﬁle a court case

•

get a driving licence

For more information regarding applying for the Taxpayer Identiﬁcation Number’s (TIN) contact the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) website at: https://gra.gov.gh/tin/.

138

Depending on its sector of operation, the level of tax a company is liable to pay varies.

There are several types of income tax, including:

The amount of payable tax is also affected by the location of a company’s project, as well as whether they are listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange.

•

Pay As You Earn (PAYE) - Payment is deducted from the employee’s income and paid for by the employee

•

personal income tax (PIT) - The tax is charged on an individual’s total income from employment, business and investment. Business owners or business partners must pay PIT if they earn over GHS 261 or more per month

•

corporate income tax (CIT) - CIT is charged on a company’s total income, including its gains and proﬁts, at the end of the ﬁnancial year

•

withholding tax (WHT) - WHT is deducted when payment is made to another person and withheld by a withholding agent. Make sure you are registered with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in order to be allowed to withhold tax from business transactions

For further information on how to list your company see the Ghana Stock Exchange’s website: https://gse.com.gh/how-to-list/. Taxes in Ghana include the following: •

income tax

•

corporate tax

•

withholding tax

•

capital gains tax

•

valued added tax (VAT)

•

national health insurance levy (NHIL)

•

dividend tax

•

customs and excise duties

•

communication service tax

•

companies income tax (CIT)

•

social security fund for staff salaries

Income tax Income tax is charged on money earned through employment. You pay income tax if you are an employee, business owner or a business partner. You must register with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to pay. If you do not live in Ghana but are paid in Ghana, you will be taxed, however, if you are paid through a business transaction, the business will be taxed.

Value added tax (VAT) Taxable goods and services that are imported into and exported out of Ghana are subject to value added tax. You are only allowed to charge for VAT if you are registered to do so. If you are registered, every item you sell or service you carry out must have VAT, and a VAT invoice must be issued. Only those exempt do not have to pay the tax. The current rate for VAT is 15%. For more information regarding taxes in Ghana, see the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) website at: https://gra.gov.gh/. [Source – DIT, DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ghana Stock Exchange]

140

Customs and documentation Complying with HMRC regulations to export To export your goods to Ghana you must submit export declarations to HMRC through the National Export System (NES). Visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/exportdeclarations-and-the-national-exportsystem-export-procedures for further details. You can ﬁnd out how to declare your exports to Ghana through the NES at: https://www. gov.uk/guidance/export-declarations-andthe-national-export-system-exportprocedures. You must classify your goods as part of the declaration, including a commodity code and a customs procedure code (CPC).

list to temporarily export goods to Ghana. As with an ATA Carnet, you do not have to pay customs duty or tax. There is no fee. See: https://www.gov.uk/taking-goods-out-uktemporarily/duplicate-list. Before you export the goods, prepare and provide to customs a completed HMRC form C&E 1246 and two copies of a list on company stationery, including: •

a description of the goods

•

how many there are

•

serial numbers, if the goods have them

•

value of the goods

Commodity codes and other details applying to exports in the UK Trade Tariff can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/trade-tariff.

See: https://www.gov.uk/government/ uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ ﬁle/374161/ce1246.pdf (PDF, 638 KB) for a copy of the HMRC form C&E 1246.

Contact the HMRC Tariff Classiﬁcation Service at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ﬁndingcommodity-codes-for-imports-or-exports #list-of-useful-contacts for more help.

Contact the HMRC Imports and Exports Helpline in advance to make the arrangements:

Access2Markets, has more information regarding import tariffs, see: https://trade.ec. europa.eu/access-to-markets/en/content/ welcome-access2markets-market-accessdatabase-users. You must declare any goods that you take with you in your luggage to sell outside the EU. See: https://www.gov.uk/take-goods-sellabroad for further information. [Source – gov.uk]

Temporary export of goods Ghana does not recognise the ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet system. You therefore need to use a duplicate

•

Telephone: 0300 200 3700

•

Textphone: 0300 200 3719

•

Outside the UK: +44 29 2050 1261

•

Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/taking-goods-outuk-temporarily for further information. To apply for a temporary export licence, you will need to use the SPIRE system at: https://www.spire.trade.gov.uk/spire/fox/ espire/LOGIN/login. [Source – gov.uk]

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Customs Information regarding duties and taxes can be found on the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) General Customs Guide: https://gra. gov.gh/customs/.

You can contact the DIT team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/ department-for-international-trade-ghana# contact-us for up-to-date information on the latest customs procedures.

Ghana’s Customs Division are responsible for import duty, import VAT, export duty, petroleum tax, import excise and other taxes, levies and fees and make sure they are collected. Smuggling is prevented by the Customs Division through border patrols, goods and documentation being examined and premises being searched.

[Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

For more information visit the Ghana Revenue Authority’s website at: https://gra.gov.gh/. Access2Markets, has more information regarding import tariffs, see: https://trade.ec. europa.eu/access-to-markets/en/content/ welcome-access2markets-market-accessdatabase-users. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, Ghana Revenue Authority]

Shipping your goods You can use a freight forwarder to move your goods if you are not knowledgeable about international shipping procedures. A freight forwarder will have vast expertise and familiarity with local documentation requirements, regulations, transportation costs and banking practices in Ghana. The British International Freight Association (BIFA) at: http://www.bifa.org/home and Logistics UK at: https://logistics.org.uk/ can assist in locating freight forwarders to transport your goods to Ghana.

Documentation When your goods arrive in Ghana, you must be able to provide the following documents:

Posting goods For information about sending goods by post to Ghana, visit Royal Mail at: https://www. royalmail.com/ghana.

•

bill of lading (original copy)

[Source – Royal Mail]

•

sea/air waybill

•

invoice (original copy)

•

packing list

•

import declaration form

Shipping restricted, banned and dangerous goods Certain goods are classed as restricted. If you wish to import any of these goods into Ghana, they are subject to special rules and require permission from ministries, departments and agencies and other regulatory entities that correspond with the goods.

•

inspection certiﬁcate (FCVR)

•

valid IRS certiﬁcate

Restricted goods include but are not limited to:

144

•

currency except under license of the Bank of Ghana

•

diamonds except under license of the Minister of Mines and Energy

•

ﬁlms and cinematograph ﬁlms except at the port of Tema, Takoradi or Kotoka International Airport, provided that they are intended solely for exhibition in private premises and not to be sold or for payment to be received for them to be watched

•

materials bearing designs and imitation of money except under license of the Minister for Finance

•

gambling machines: a permit is required from the Ministry of the Interior

•

plant, plant product, plant disease or pest, soil, manure, grass, and other parking material liable to harbour dangerous diseases or pests of plants, a permit is required from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture

•

explosives: a Ministry of the Interior license is required arms and ammunition: a permit is required from the Ministry of the Interior

•

handcuffs: a Ministry of the Interior license is required

•

mercury: a license is required from the Ministry of Mines and Energy (Mercury Act, 1989, PNDCL 217)

See the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) website for the full list of restricted goods: https://gra.gov.gh/customs/importprohibitions-and-restrictions/.

145

There are also goods that are classed as absolutely prohibited and under no circumstances should they be brought into Ghana. These include, but are not limited to: •

second-hand/used refrigerators and air conditioners

•

used vehicle cuts and tampered chassis

•

raw coffee imported overland or by inland waterways

•

coins that are not up to standard, such as not being of the established standards in accordance with the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242)

•

contaminated food

•

knuckle dusters

•

libellous and scandalous materials

•

counterfeit coins or counterfeit notes of any country

•

obscene or pornographic articles

•

dangerous weapons in the opinion of the Ministry of the Interior

See the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) website for the full list of restricted goods: https://gra.gov.gh/customs/importprohibitions-and-restrictions/. For more information visit gov.uk’s shipping dangerous goods page: https://www.gov. uk/shipping-dangerous-goods/what-aredangerous-goods. Terms of delivery You should have a clear written contract in all international commercial transactions to minimise any risk of misunderstanding.

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

Incoterms are a series of widely-used commercial terms for international trade in goods, which clarify for example:

You can ﬁnd out more about UKEF’s services and products at: https://www.gov.uk/govern ment/collections/our-products.

•

where the goods will be delivered

•

who arranges transport

For new business enquiries, email UKEF at: customer.service@ukexportﬁnance.gov.uk or telephone: 020 7271 8010 between 9am and 5pm.

•

who handles customs procedures

•

who is responsible for insuring the goods, and who pays for insurance

•

who pays any duties and taxes

International trade rules changed in September 2019, so you should check with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), which publishes Incoterm rules, at: https://iccwbo. org/resources-for-business/incoterms-rules, for details of the new rules, and also with the UK Government for further general advice and details about current Incoterms at: https://www.gov.uk/topic/business-tax/ import-export#international-trade-contractsand-incoterms.

For up-to-date country-speciﬁc information on the support available see UKEF’s cover policy and indicators for Ghana at: https:// www.gov.uk/guidance/country-cover-policyand-indicators#ghana. [Source – ICC, UKEF, gov.uk, DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Incoterms do not apply to the delivery of services. Contracts for the international delivery of services should include a Service Level Agreement (SLA), focusing on desired outcomes such as what the service should achieve. UK Export Finance The UK Government’s credit agency, UKEF, wins export contracts by providing attractive ﬁnancing terms to their buyers. They can help you: •

fulﬁl orders by supporting working capital loans

•

get paid by insuring against buyer default

146

FirmProfile Introduction & what we do IKERN & ASSOCIATES and IKERN CHARTERED ACCOUNTANCY (“IKERN”) are affiliated professional services firms. IKERN & ASSOCIATES specialises in the provision of tax compliance and planning services, tax health checks/due diligence, tax opinions, non-statutory audits, payroll management, management consulting, business advisory and tax and finance related training solutions. IKERN CHARTERED ACCOUNTANCY on the other hand specialises in statutory audits, accounting and related technical support to clients. IKERN is currently licensed and rated “A” by the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana on the list of practicing and auditing firms.

How we do what we do In IKERN we draw on the knowledge and skills of professionals with varied background and experience. We build working relationships by providing services based on professionalism and integrity. Through such relationships, we help our clients solve business problems and e n hance their ability to build value, manage risk and improve performance.

The firm is led by Dr Isaac Nyame who is the Managing Partner/Consultant and supported by other experienced and knowledgeable professionals.

We also bring to bear on assignments the exposure and experience of the firm in working for multinational organisations. We design our service delivery approach to achieve a careful balance between our global exposure and experience and the local business environment. By leveraging on our experiences, we are able to tailor-make global solutions into workable and practical solutions even within the local context.

To who we do what we do

We provide services to a broad range of clients engaged in diverse socio-economic activities. Our clients range from small and medium-sized entities to large businesses. Having the opportunity to work for clients in different industries has enabled our professional staff to view management problems that clients encounter from several different perspectives and are therefore able to provide clients with focused solutions.

IKERN House No. 12 Right-Off Cemetery Junction Agbogba, North Legon, Accra - Ghana

IKERN has provided professional services across sectors and industries including health, oil and gas, mining, telecoms, manufacturing, FMCG and several others.

We should be pleased to be at your s e r v ice in a mutual partnership in ensuring your business risks are managed efficiently to ensure business development and growth.

Postal: P. O. Box MD1132, Madina Email: info@ikernassociates.com Website: www.ikernassociates.com +233(0)302967403 Dr Isaac Nyame isaacnyame@ikernassociates.com +233(0)264603692 Richard O Acheampong roacheampong@ikernassociates.com +233(0)268545163

SCOPE OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Audit and Assurance Our audits are performed in accordance with International Standards on Auditing issued by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board, the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992) and any other applicable law(s) and/or regulation(s). We adapt our audit services to fit your unique needs, however, what does not change is the exceptional service quality we deliver to all our clients. Whether you’re already at the top or you’re on your way up, we have a designed audit service that will fit your purpose.

Tax •

General Tax Compliance Services (tax computation, returns filing and payment obligations);

•

General Tax Planning Services (payroll, business structuring, VAT, etc.);

•

Tax Health Checks (direct and indirect taxes) and advising on entity’s tax environment & compliance status;

•

Transaction and tax advisory on mergers, acquisitions and other forms of re-organisations (including due diligence);

•

International tax planning and compliance including transfer pricing and expatriate (immigration) tax services;

•

Tax audit support and client representation at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA);

•

Preparing tax guidance and opinions;

•

Tax research and reporting on the tax environmental impact of proposed and implemented tax policies;

•

Entity/industry specific tax compliance and planning services for industries including: •

Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG);

•

Manufacturing;

•

Upstream petroleum operations;

•

Mid and downstream petroleum operations;

•

Farming and agro-processing;

•

Transport and haulage;

Company Secretarial

•

Sports and leisure;

•

Medical/life support industries;

•

Mechanical and electrical engineering;

•

Banking and non-bank financial institutions;

Our team is fully abreast of the local laws and use same to assist our clients in company registration procedures, changes requiring special resolutions like transfer of shares, change of business objects and increase in authorized shares of a company. We also assist with:

•

Energy and power;

•

Education, NGOs and Charities; and

Filing of Annual Company Returns and Audited Financial Statements with the Registrar of Companies;

• •

Consulting entities.

Advisory services for foreign investors in terms of capital requirements under the GIPC Act; and

•

Advisory with requirements imposed by the Local Content Regulations for entities operating in the oil and gas and mining sectors.

Business Advisory Our business advisory services include: •

Providing Technical Finance and Accounting Advice or Guidance;

•

Labour Brokerage;

•

Transaction Advisory;

•

Restructuring, Turnaround and Reorganization Planning; and

•

Employee or Talent Engagement or Search.

Payroll Structuring and Management Setting up and processing salaries every month can be a daunting task, especially due to the need for payroll to comply with relevant laws and regulations. As the tax laws impose stringent sanctions for non-compliance with the relevant tax provisions, there is the need for technical

expertise in a quest to avoid incurring such penalties and to stay compliant. Among others, we provide the following services:

•

Emailing to each employee, their pay slips for the relevant payroll month and responding to questions thereon (if any);

•

Conducting an initial payroll environmental assessment to ascertain whether the payroll structuring is efficient for tax purposes or not and advising thereon;

•

Emailing to you Schedules for tax payments and Ghana Revenue Authority official receipts as well as other payment documents (if any);

• •

On your instructions, re-structure the payroll systems to take advantage of the tax benefits available in the Income Tax Laws of Ghana;

Preparing and emailing for your attention and records monthly reconciliation of funds received from you and use of the funds; and

• •

Assist companies in computing the required remuneration of local and expatriate employees and determine the tax payable by the employees in accordance with the relevant provision of the Income Tax Laws of Ghana and other relevant statutes;

In consultation with you, responding to queries that may be raised by the GRA after submitting Tax Deduction Schedule and making payments to the GRA.

•

Advising your company on the net salaries, as well as the tax liability payable to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) each month; Requesting for transfer of funds to us for payment of the local and expatriate employees’ salaries and personal income tax liabilities to the GRA;

Accountancy We can help with: •

Part-time or temporary full-time controllership;

•

Accounting records clean-up;

•

Accounting department management;

•

Accounting and bookkeeping services;

•

Compilations and reviews;

•

Accounting software analysis, implementation and staff training;

•

Financial statement analysis;

•

Preparing monthly and/or quarterly financial statements;

•

Coordinating closing of the year-end financial records;

•

Preparing and guiding you through your annual audit;

•

Budget preparation and monitoring;

•

Cash flow projections;

•

Policies & procedures manual development;

•

Internal controls establishment, assessment and / or evaluation;

•

Banking relationships development and management; and

•

Assistance with recruiting, hiring and training of finance personnel.

Training We train in various fields including: •

Tax accounting and compliance;

•

Financial accounting;

•

Internal audit management;

•

Payroll structuring; and

•

Set-up of cost and financial accounting systems.

Let’s understand your specific business needs so as to recommend and provide tailored solutions that offer value for money.

Modern residential buildings in Accra, capital of Ghana

GHANA

The official language of Ghana is English, and business meetings and transactions will almost always be held in English. It is unlikely that you will need an interpreter when doing business in Ghanaian cities.

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BUSINESS ETIQUETTE, LANGUAGE & CULTURE

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Business etiquette, language & culture

Language The official language of Ghana is English, and business meetings and transactions will almost always be held in English. It is unlikely that you will need an interpreter when doing business in Ghanaian cities. However, an interpreter may be necessary when visiting rural areas. Make sure you choose your interpreter carefully as they will become one of your key assets. Always use a professional interpreter for negotiations in order to remove any possibility of misunderstanding. Avoid using electronic translation as mistakes can be made. Lists of potential interpreters and translators in Ghana can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/ government/publications/ghana-list-oflawyers. Alternatively you can check with the DIT team in Ghana at: https://www.gov.uk/ world/organisations/department-forinternational-trade-ghana#contact-us. Ghana is also multilingual with around 80 languages spoken throughout the country. Akan is the language that is the most widely spoken followed by Asante, Ewe, Fante, Boron (Brong), Dagomba and Dangme. [Source – DIT, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

Religion Over 70% of Ghana’s population follows Christianity, including Protestantism and Catholicism, with many celebrating Christian holidays such as Christmas. Due to the government’s tolerance of faiths, the population of Ghana follow different religions, with the second-largest religion being Islam, and Islamic holidays such as Ramadan are celebrated. Traditional indigenous tribal religions, such as Akan, are also followed in Ghana, with many of Ghana’s customs being inﬂuenced by tribal beliefs. [Source – DIT, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)]

Hierarchy Hierarchy is important in Ghana, with the wealthiest or the most experienced, and those in higher positions or who are older, being at the top. The most senior member is usually treated with the most respect and they may receive special treatment. They will also usually make the important decisions. Therefore, when doing business with Ghana it is advised you approach the person who has the authority to make decisions for their company. Once a decision has been made, you will be passed down to the department/person you will be liaising with further. [Source – DIT]

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Meetings and greetings Meetings should always begin with a handshake starting with the eldest. After, you should shake hands with those on the right of you, making your way across to those on the left. Always shake hands using your right hand.

Therefore, do not be offended if your questions are not answered, move on with the conversation in order to not make a bad impression or cause embarrassment. Also be aware that ‘yes’ does not always mean they agree with you.

Before the meeting formally begins, your business associates may want to swap pleasantries with you in order to get to know you better. These questions will usually relate to your health and family and in order not to appear rude you must enquire about their health and family too.

It may take several meetings before you have fully discussed your business plans as Ghanaian business people prefer to do business with those they know and trust, therefore initial meetings will be about getting to know you. Once your meeting has ﬁnished, make sure you document any agreements or discussions you have had in order to prevent any misunderstandings in the future.

Business cards are important in Ghana, so make sure you have plenty when meeting potential business partners. Similar to when shaking hands, always receive and give business cards with your right hand.

[Source – DIT]

Hours of business Make sure you are punctual to your meetings in order to make a good impression, although it is not unusual for your Ghanaian business associates to be late. Once the meeting has begun, allow the eldest and most senior associates to sit down first and if possible, it is polite to offer them a seat. Be aware that Ghanaian’s are not comfortable with the direct approach to business and may find it difficult to say ‘no’ in meetings. If your business associates do not agree with what you are saying, they may try to avoid answering directly, but may try to decline through a more polite and sensitive approach. They may also stay silent as Ghanaian’s find that during business meetings it is better to stay silent than to disagree in order to save face.

Business hours in Ghana are usually from 8am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. With the working week mostly consisting of up to 40 hours, with a half an hour to an hour break during each work day. Any work completed after the general eight hours per day is classed as overtime. Services, such as the police and hospital workers, may work hours over Saturday and Sunday as they are deemed essential. The British High Commission Accra’s main office is open Monday to Thursday from 7:30am to 3:30pm. On Fridays they are open from 7:30am to 1:30pm. [Source – DIT]

158

Titles Titles are important in Ghana. Make sure you use the appropriate title followed by your business associates surname in order to show respect and not appear rude. It is advised that if you do not know their official title, use either ‘Mr’, ‘Miss’ or ‘Mrs’, so as not to cause offence. Only if you know them better or have been asked to do so may you address your business associates by their ﬁrst name. [Source – DIT]

Attire Business dress is similar to that in the UK and should be formal. Men should wear suits and ties, and women should wear either trousers/long skirt and a blouse, or a dress. [Source – DIT]

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> Clear, consistent content is vital to making your business understood overseas. So don't leave it to chance.

> Well-known companies we already work with include: Serco, Experian, Intertek, IKEA and Caterpillar > For a structured approach to translation, please read the article that follows

T: 0115 9705633 | E: office@astls.co.uk | www.astlanguage.com

If you're reading this guide, the chances are you're either a seasoned exporter, or you're committed to investigating new export opportunities for your business. Whichever category you fall into, you'll have a good idea of the huge investment in time, effort and resources which is required for export success. Your priority will be to get your product or service to market, and it's a fact of life that procurement of peripheral resources such as translation is often left to the last minute. In this article we'd like to demonstrate to you how building translation into the early planning stages of your export campaigns can pay dividends. The internet, mobile connectivity and social media mean that now more than ever before customers, be they B2B or B2C, are buying goods and services within the context of a connected world of instant communication.

Buying decisions carried out in isolation of wider and constantly changing sector, economic or social contexts are a thing of the past. This means that increasingly any product or service has to be supported with professional technical, marketing or other contextual content. As examples of this, exporters need their technical documentation to be easily assimilated, their marketing content to be compelling, and their website to be informative and memorable. Human resources departments on the other hand need sensitive localisation of policies & procedures in line with local legislation, corporate guidelines and house style. After all an international expansion strategy or company restructuring could easily be undermined by insensitive internal communication.

In non English-speaking markets, all of the above can be achieved by working with a reliable and professional translation partner. So how can really good translation help build your export success: •

clear and accurate foreignlanguage branding and content will motivate foreign customers to buy from you

•

consistent and harmonised messaging helps to convey and reinforce your company's values and ethos

•

corporate and operational risk through poor quality communication and misunderstanding is eliminated

•

overall brand integrity and reputation are enhanced

The following components are key to a successful translation project, and show how AST can make the process of internationalising outward-facing and internal communications simpler, more professional and more costeffective: Rigorous selection of translators AST’s ISO9001 certified and ISO17100 compliant processes mean that the company has approved sector-specialist translators whatever the language and deadline requirements, with experienced proofreaders to give the text precision and professionalism to really focus the reader’s attention. Translation memory technology Client-facing documents produced periodically often contain sections which stay the same and sections which need updating. Similarly company websites and technical data or manuals can contain identical paragraphs and sections. Translation Memory technology is used in this situation to identify duplicate and legacy text. The duplicates are logged and reused – leading to reduced turnaround times and resulting

cost savings – with company wordings for products, processes, titles and descriptions translated consistently. Terminology management The key words used to describe your company’s products, services and processes support your brand and identity. This is equally true in your foreign language communications. Unfortunately, once translated it is often easy to lose control of key terms, leading to uncertainty as to whether the translations are having the desired impact. AST’s terminology management prevents this. Glossaries are maintained in multiple languages and client terminology is checked in each language by industry sector experts. As the glossary grows it can be reused with each new project, so client content is always on-message and brand integrity consistent. So there’s really no need for you to leave the “softer” aspects of your export campaign to chance. Using a professional translation company like AST provides a guarantee that your international content will be clear, consistent and effective. Whatever the language.

> YOU NEED YOUR SALES, TECHNICAL AND WEBSITE CONTENT TO BE TRANSLATED BY EXPERTS!

> We’re recognised as a UK leader for translating high profile, client-facing documents > All our translators are rigorously selected so your text will be translated by the best people in the business > We ensure you get premium quality translations every time, on time and within budget

No matter how urgent your assignment we can translate it.

T: 0115 9705633 | E: office@astls.co.uk | www.astlanguage.com

Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Ghana, Africa

GHANA

UK businesses need to be aware of variations of Ghana’s 419 scam. These can involve enticing foreign business people into agreeing to bogus deals.

166

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES?

What are the challenges?

•

the erratic and unpredictable power supply, with frequent outages known as dumsor

Scams UK businesses need to be aware of variations of Ghana’s 419 scam. These can involve enticing foreign business people into agreeing to bogus deals. Some participants of these scams will claim to be British High Commision Accra officials or from the Ghana High Commission in London. If in any doubt about the validity of their information given to you by these contacts, get in touch with the Department for International Trade team in Ghana: DIT.Africa@fcdo.gov.uk.

•

bureaucracy that can be obstructive or ineffective

UK business should be aware of scams including:

•

corruption (Ghana ranks 73rd out of 180 in Transparency International's latest 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index, announced January 2022)

•

the 419 fraud, involving a request for contract registration or pre-qualiﬁcation advance fees

• •

high rates of poverty and unemployment

the transferring of funds from ﬁctitious, over-invoiced or failed contracts

•

an underdeveloped capital market

•

any promises of phantom contracts or supplies

•

there are some International Monetary Fund (IMF) restrictions on government spending and certain levels of economic instability

•

the sale of crude oil below market prices

•

an invitation to share property or someone’s inheritance

•

a request for a letter of invitation or for a representative of the company to visit the UK

•

cheque or credit card fraud

Challenges when doing business with Ghana Challenges to be aware of when doing business with Ghana include:

•

a poor social infrastructure, although this is improving

You can read the Overseas Business Risk report for Ghana, at: https://www.gov.uk/ government/publications/overseas-businessrisk-ghana for more information about the challenges when doing business there. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide]

Do not send goods based on the strength of a cheque received or a credit card, especially if you have not dealt with that particular contact before.

168

If it is a genuine agreement then payment before despatch of goods should be expected as it is standard practice. All business should be on fully secured terms, with upfront cash payment given or a conﬁrmed irrevocable letter of credit which should be reconﬁrmed by a bank in the UK. [Source – DIT: Doing business in Ghana: Ghana trade and export guide, FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

Intellectual Property (IP) There are two fully-ﬂedged independent copyright offices in Ghana, both of which are under the Ministry of Justice: The Copyright Office and Copy Ghana. The country has made a concerted effort over the last decade to enact legislation that offers protection for IP rights (IPR).

•

The Convention Establishing the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)

•

The Universal Copyright Convention (UCC)

•

The Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works

•

The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)

•

The WIPO Copyright Treaty

•

The WIPO Performances and Phonogram Treaty

The current IPR laws in Ghana are:

For more information, visit the FCDO’s Intellectual Property page, at: https://www. gov.uk/government/collections/internationalip-service.

•

[Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

The Protection Against Unfair Competition Act, 2000, which also gives trademarks some protection

•

Geographical Indications Act, 2003

•

Industrial Designs Act, 2003

•

Patent Act, 2003

•

Trademarks Act, 2004

•

Layout Designs (Topographies) of Integrated Circuits Act, 2004

•

Ghana is a member of, or has ratiﬁed the following international agreements:

Bribery and corruption According to the UK Bribery Act (2010), it is an offence for British nationals or someone who is ordinarily resident in the UK, a body incorporated in the UK or a Scottish partnership to bribe anywhere in the world. In addition, a commercial organisation carrying on a business in the UK can be liable for the conduct of a person who is neither a UK national or resident in the UK or a body incorporated or formed in the UK. In this case, it does not matter whether the acts or omissions which form part of the offence take place in the UK or elsewhere. The UK has successfully prosecuted companies involved in corrupt practices overseas, and places the responsibility upon ﬁrms to ensure they have taken relevant anti-corruption measures.

170

For more information, visit gov.uk’s anti-bribery page at: www.gov.uk/antibribery-policy. In Transparency International's latest 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index (announced January 2022) Ghana is ranked 73rd out 180 countries (the UK ranks 11th): https://www. transparency.org/en/countries/ghana. Visit the anti-corruption portal, at: https:// www.gov.uk/international/anti-corruption and the Ghana Country Proﬁle page: https://www.ganintegrity.com/portal/ country-proﬁles/ghana/ for more advice and guidance regarding corruption in Ghana as well as some basic procedures you can carry out in order to protect your company.

Predominantly, organised crime in Ghana takes the form of drug trafficking, human trafficking and/or cybercrime. In the north of the country, there is an illegal cross-border small arms trade. See the HM Revenue & Customs’ organised crime page at: https:// www.gov.uk/guidance/crime-and-fraudprevention-for-businesses-in-internationaltrade. [Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

[Source – FCDO Overseas Business Risk: Ghana]

Organised crime Ghana experiences both petty and organised crime, although the level is lower than that of their neighbours in Sub-Saharan Africa. You should make sure to take sensible precautions, particularly in cities, and keep your personal belongings such as passports and money safe and secure at all times. Pickpockets have been known to work in gangs in order to distract you whilst going into your bag. In restaurants and bars you should ensure that you keep your personal belongings close to you at all times. For further information see the FCDO Foreign travel advice website at: https://www.gov. uk/foreign-travel-advice/ghana.

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About G4S G4S is the world’s leading security solutions group, which specialises in outsourcing of business processes in sectors where security and safety risks are considered a strategic threat. G4S has a broad range of customers around the world but our strategic focus is on sectors where safety and security are key.

•

We focus on providing secure facilities solutions, consulting, security systems, manned security and secure logistics to corporations and governments around the world.

•

We have worked in Ghana for over 17 years and now employ about 7000 people. For more information on G4S visit www.g4s.com/en-gh

What We Do Risk Advisory Services G4S has a risk consulting capability offering trusted security advice, risk assessments, mitigation strategies and integrated solutions. G4S ensures that clients fully consider the risks they and their organizations may face, and offers solutions to mitigate these risks wherever possible. With 50 years of experience in Africa and over a decade of first hand, front line involvement in Ghana, we combine local knowledge with international best practice, to advise on risk mitigation and to design effective security solutions. Monitoring and Response On subscribing to the Monitoring and Response service, panic buttons will be installed at your premises. In the event of an emergency, press the panic

button to send an alarm to our 24 hour central monitoring station. When an alarm is received, we dispatch the closest Response Team to your location to assist with security, fire, medical or other emergencies. Manned Security Services G4S provides manned security services which are fully compliant with global best practice based on G4S worldwide standards; • • • • • • • • •

Access control n Reception duties Checking functions CCTV monitoring Static guards Venue security Supervision Patrolling Parking and traffic control Heatlh & safety assistance

System Design & Specification

Security System Installations

We design and specify access & CCTV surveillance systems, gates, booms, turnstiles and perimeter defenses for projects of all sizes and complexity. We specify the right products to meet your needs and your budget and ensure each product can be supported locally

We design, install, maintain and monitor security systems including; • Intruder alarms & detection systems • Access control systems / biometric solutions • Time & attendance management systems • CCTV systems n Fire alarm systems • Real-time guard patrol systems • Beams, gates and electric fencing • Visitor management systems

plans, itemized bills of quantities, specifications, and if required we will assist you by writing tender documents and evaluating bids.

Systems Maintenance Our qualified and experienced technical team handles maintenance requirements for all types of access control, CCTV, electric fencing, alarm systems and fire detection systems.

CCTV Monitoring We have the capability to monitor your Closed Circuit Television remotely at our 24/7 Central Monitoring Station. Our operators are highly trained and skilled at detecting suspicious or unsafe activity. 24hr Monitoring ensures immediate response to incidents. We offer recording and storage services which you can access to view playbacks at any time. Vehicle Tracking We supply reports by vehicle and driver, and customize the information to provide you with the fleet management insight you require to promote safety and cost effectiveness. Our solutions have been designed to help organisations: • Implement a profitable telematics strategy.

•

Connect directly to customers and offer value added services over the lifetime of the vehicle.

•

Enable access to vehicle data to optimise its utilisation and improve productivity.

•

Decrease fleet operational and maintenance costs.

Journey Management We provide executive, staff and crew transportation services including planning, scheduling, dispatching, prepositioning services. G4S CPO’s have been responsible for the protection of officials, international business executives and celebrities. Our airport meet and greet service assists customers with a safe and smooth passage through the airport.

Our access control systems include: • Biometric • Keypad • Proximity • Turnstile • Speed Gate solutions.

Our visitor management systems offer both visitor kiosks and receptionist generated badging solutions.

G4S CIT & Bullion Services Our CIT & Bullion services have built a reputation for delivering outstanding customer service and world-class cash & bullion solutions; We: • Have the resources and expertise to provide a holistic Solution for all of your security requirements •

Facilitate the best balance between low cost, risk mitigation through existing presence and quality cash & bullion services

Our intruder and fire alarm systems ensure automatic detection of unauthorized access and fire. To verify the alarm we can link to a video detection system that you can view on your phone wherever you are. All systems are monitored around the clock at our central alarm station.

•

Secure, reliable and timely supply of cash

•

Account Manager and a team of specialists to ensure satisfactory service delivery

•

Use innovative, proven techniques to mitigate risks to your organisation’s assets, and develop complete preventative solutions. We aim to reduce your costs and deliver a return on your investment.

Ethics & Values G4S operates in accordance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (“FCPA”), the UN’s Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (“VPSH”) & the UK Bribery Act 2010 (c.23). •

We act with INTEGRITY AND RESPECT

•

We are passionate about SAFETY, SECURITY AND SERVICE EXCELLENCE

•

We achieve this through INNOVATION AND TEAMWORK

Corporate Citizenship We ensure that we invest in the communities from which we recruit our staff and act as a responsible corporate citizen at all times.

Event Security G4S has a distinguished track record of securing sporting events, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of participants, employees, organisers and audiences across the world.

Contact us G4S Security Services (Ghana) Ltd Accra 31 Second Labone Street/By Pass Road Labone, Accra Ghana PMB CT 189 Cantonments, Accra (+233) 0302 779 570 (+233) 0303 975 256 (+233) 0303 975 258 Fax: (+233) 0302 770 689 Email: administration@gh.g4s.com Website: www.g4s.com.gh Sales Enquiries (+233) 0544 337 447 (+233) 0544 348 746 Email: sales@gh.g4s.com

GHANA

Hierarchy is important in Ghana, with the wealthiest or the most experienced, and those in higher positions or who are older, being at the top.

182

RESOURCES

LEADING UK DESIGNER, FABRICATOR & EXPORTER OF STRUCTURAL STEEL BUILDINGS

19 • EST 19 Over a Century of structural steel design experience

L IS H E D

L I S HE D

Proud to work with our clients in Ghana

REIDsteel are experts in the design and fabrication of high quality value engineered steel framed structures including the cladding, glazing, mezzanine floors, stairs and door systems. BS EN ISO 9001:2015 • BS EN ISO 14001:2015 • BS EN ISO 45001:2018 Four times winner of The Queen's Award for Enterprise International Trade

19 • EST 19

REIDsteel are a UK company that, to date, have been involved in over 50 projects in Ghana, including hospitals, heavy plant workshops, warehouses and factories. Additionally in Africa as a whole, we have designed and fabricated hundreds of additional steel structures such as aircraft hangars, schools, road bridges and grandstands. Worldwide we have shipped projects to more than 140 countries. For more details of our capabilities and range of projects visit www.REIDsteel.com We would be very happy to quote on any of your upcoming projects. You can contact our team via email or telephone. E sales@reidsteel.co.uk T +44 (0) 1202 483333

Brick factory during construction

Warehouse with crane

Airport Fire Station

Mineral Workshop under construction

REIDsteel John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd, Strucsteel House, 3 Reid Street, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2BT England Tel: +44 (0) 1202 483333 Email: sales@reidsteel.co.uk Web: www.reidsteel.com REIDsteel is a trading name of John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd Company Registration No: 617773

What does membership of the Institute of Export & International Trade mean? To most the Institute of Export & International Trade simply plods away providing much needed qualifications to professionalise the industry however, did you realise that our helpline is one of the busiest and best in the industry? It’s all part of membership and, if you need more than a phone call, we can put together a project to fulfil your needs. 2015 saw the launch of our Technical Help for Exporters that recognises the volume of legislation and regulation that covers our industry and gives you the comfort of knowing that if you don’t know, you know someone who does!

Innovation is key to the success of the Institute and new ideas include our New Exporter package. This allows a business to enter a new market secure in the knowledge that they have an understanding of how they will operate and comply with any specific regulations and standards. Practical help and assistance is always available from the Institute so any additional training can be tailored to the business and the team that needs the knowledge. The work of the IOE&IT also extends to representing membership views. Knowledge gained from our members’ feedback, those who get involved with

the forums and Special Interest Groups, and those who attend our training courses or study with us, enables us to represent the industry at government levels in both the process and delivery of policy for international trade. These views also help us to ensure that the training programmes are effective and pertinent to the industry needs. Our Diploma in World Customs Compliance and Regulation is testament to the way we listen to our members’ needs. This was driven by Nissan, Adidas, John Lewis and many others and will neatly dovetail into any AEO work ensuring that quality standards are met at manager and junior staffing levels.

www.export.org.uk

Starting in 1935, the Institute committed itself to building competence and growing confidence for businesses trading in goods and services, which at the time, was a far reaching remit. Over the years this remit has seen us develop from simply providing training in short course format over a day, or perhaps two, into a fully-fledged Ofqual Awarding Organisation that operates specifically to deliver international trade education.

our young people at an earlier stage. We need to engage the next generation in thinking about how world trade works and how it will be great for British businesses. They need to know how items arrive in the shops which, in turn, will begin to spark ideas. As these young people join companies they will bring a fresh outlook that all things are possible especially if you operate globally.

This status allows our individual members and corporates alike to be sure that they are part of a quality organisation with plans for growth integrated with a sustainable future for the global prosperity of UKPlc.

Why not call us and get involved? It has never been more important that we act as an industry to help – we need experts and commitment to professionalising international trade from businesses large and small – help your institute to stay ahead of the curve.

Part of our work includes mapping existing qualifications to roles and producing training needs analyses to ensure staffing progression and continuity. The need to upskill our workforce to match those of our competitors is a key element vital for growth. Our focus is on recognising that International trade needs specific knowledge, coupled with a strong belief that we must start to talk to

Institute of Export & International Trade Export House Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE2 6FT, UK Telephone: +44(0)1733 - 404400 Fax: +44(0)1733 - 404444

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www.export.org.uk

@ioexport

Choosing a great export training partner can really help your company take off in the export trade! We can help develop new ideas and find ways to drive down costs and produce sustainable improvements in your export business. Join us today

Membership : Training : Qualiﬁcations : Advice Call: +44 (0) 1733 404 400 : email: institute@export.org.uk

IOE&IT Qualifications in brief www.export.org.uk/page/qualifications Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Level 4 Level 5

Level 7

Young International Trader (Available electronically) International Trade Logistic Operations* Certificate of International Trade Level 3 Customs Practitioner Award Certificate in Customs Legislation and Procedures (Delivered by KGH Customs) Certificate in Customs Duty Calculation (Delivered by KGH Customs) Diploma in International Trade Customs Practitioner Award Diploma in International Trade Diploma in World Customs Compliance and Regulations Foundation Degree jointly delivered with the University of Plymouth MSc International Trade, Strategy and Operations with Warwick University

Specialist Courses • • • •

Award in International Transport and Documentation International Marketing Specialist Finance of International Trade Specialist Selling Services, Software and Skills Overseas

Apprenticeships Working in conjunction with employers and Universities, the Institute has access to qualifications which are available now and funded through the apprenticeship levy, these apply for professional and degree qualifications, including Bachelors and Masters Degrees. • •

•

International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprenticeship (Level 3) Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (BSc Professional Management Practice) with the University of Plymouth Supply Chain Leadership Degree Apprenticeship (BSc Professional Practice in Supply Chain Leadership) with CP Training Services

Using our 4 Pillars of Learning, the IOE&IT qualifications offer students the opportunity to apply their learning to their current employer, or a business that they know well: Learning Pillar 1: World Business Environment Learning Pillar 2: Market Research & marketing / selling in a different culture Learning Pillar 3: Finance of international trade, getting paid and how foreign exchange works Learning Pillar 4: Compliance, regulations and logistics OR Selling services overseas

As part of IOE&IT qualifications, students will plan, research and implement a work-based project that will act as a useful strategic management tool in each of the main topics they study. Each paper will produce a useful piece of work based on the company’s own product or offering which allows the student to gain new knowledge to be useful in the business. This style of work-based projects ensures that all study is relevant to the student’s business context. Working on these projects using the organisation’s structure provides excellent opportunities for the student to apply theoretical ideas in real world contexts. The employee will essentially become a practitioner-researcher to undertake each project, producing pieces of work with the potential to yield tangible benefits for the sponsor business – a benefit for both the student who qualifies and the employer who has a set of reports specifically about exporting and their own business. *International Trade Logistic Operations is delivered through our approved centres

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The British High Commission Accra maintains and develops relations between the UK and Ghana. Find out more on their UK and Ghana news page: https://www.gov.uk/world/ghana/ news. They provide services to British nationals living in and visiting Ghana. You can access UK Government services while in Ghana here: https://www.gov.uk/world/ ghana.

Urgent assistance If you are in Ghana and you need urgent help (for example, you have been attacked, arrested or someone has died), call + 233 302 213 250. If you are in the UK and worried about a British national in Ghana, call 020 7008 1500.

If you are travelling in more than three weeks, check if you can get a new or replacement passport in time to travel here: https://www.gov.uk/renew-adultpassport.

Get an emergency travel document You can apply for an emergency travel document if you are abroad and your passport has been lost or stolen, damaged or expired, and you cannot get a new or replacement passport in time to travel here: https://www.gov.uk/emergencytravel-document.

If you are not a British citizen or have not had a British passport before If you are not sure, check if you are a British citizen here: https://www.gov.uk/ check-british-citizenship.

If the person needing the emergency travel document is under 16, a parent or guardian should apply on their behalf.

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If you are not a British citizen but think you may be eligible, contact the British High Commission Accra to apply for an emergency travel document here: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations /british-high-commission-accra#contactus.

Other consular services Consular fees The British High Commission Accra charge fees for some of their services.

See the full list of consular fees in Ghana here: https://www.gov.uk/government/ publications/ghana-consular-fees.

Contact details British High Commission Accra Julius Nyerere Link off Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue PO Box 296 Accra Ghana Telephone: +233 302 213 250 Passport Advice Line: +44 300 222 0000

Visa Hotline: +44 1243 213 316 Consular Hotline: +233 302213200 Use our contact form for consular enquiries: https://www.contactembassy.service.gov.uk/?country= Ghana&post=British%20High%20 Commission%20Accra

Fax: +233 30 2213 274

For enquiries that are not about consular issues, email: High.Commission.Accra@fco.gov.uk

Email Enquiries: https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukviinside-outside-uk

Main Office (staff working hours): Monday to Thursday - 7:30am to 3:30pm Friday - 7:30am to 1:30pm

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MTN Business

Superfast internet your customers will love with MTN TurboNet. Thrill your customers with the speed of Yello! Purchase a TurboNet router and dial *5057# or *170# to buy a bundle and enjoy an amazing 4G+ experience only on Ghana’s fastest network.

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Dial 100 for more information

SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS

The Institute of Export & International Trade

The Institute of Export & International Trade Export House Minerva Business Park Lynch Wood Peterborough PE2 6FT, UK T: +44 (0) 1733 404400 www.export.org.uk

Department for International Trade (DIT)

Department for International Trade (DIT) If you have a specific enquiry about the Ghanaian market which is not addressed by the information in this guide, you may contact: E: enquiries@trade.gov.uk T: +44 (0)20 7215 5000 Otherwise contact DIT at the British High Commission Accra directly, for more information and advice on opportunities for doing business with Ghana: UK Department for International Trade Ghana British High Commission Julius Nyerere Link P. O. Box 296 Accra Ghana E: DIT.Africa@fcdo.gov.uk T: +233-302213200

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SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS

UK Export Finance

UK Export Finance is the UK’s export credit agency. Its mission is to ensure that no viable UK export fails for lack of finance or insurance from the private sector, while operating at no net cost to the taxpayer. It helps companies: •

win export contracts by providing attractive financing terms to their buyers

•

fulfil orders by supporting working capital and trade finance facilities

•

get paid by insuring against buyer default

Established in 1919 as the world’s first export credit agency, UKEF helps exporters access finance and insurance when there is a lack of private sector risk appetite or capacity. This keeps them exporting, boosts business and protects jobs, especially in economic downturns when access to finance is constrained. UKEF helps UK companies win, fulfil and get paid for international business by providing guarantees, insurance and loans to support export activities. To learn more visit: www.great.gov.uk/trade-finance/

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Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS

UK–Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC)

UK–Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) British High Commission Julius Nyerere Link, P. O. Box 296, Accra, Ghana T: +233 (0) 302 213 214 https://ukgcc.com.gh/ E: info@ukgcc.com Linkedin: UKGCC

British Expertise

British Expertise 23 Grafton Street London W1S 4EY T: +44 (0) 20 7824 1920 F: +44 (0) 20 7824 1929 www.britishexpertise.org

International Market Advisor

International Market Advisor IMA Ltd 2nd Floor, 32 Park Green Macclesfield SK11 7NA Email: info@ima.uk.com General enquiries switchboard T: +44 (0) 1298 79562 www.DoingBusinessGuides.com Media enquiries Newsdesk & out of hours T: +44 (0) 1298 79562

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MARKET EXPERTS

Purchase and Export of Agricultural Produces

AGROECOM GHANA LIMITED Airport Residential Area House No 8, Odoi Kwao Street P.O. BOX CT 8084, Cantonments-Accra T: +233 (0) 30 2745445 www.ecomtrading.com

Insurance

Allianz Ghana (Life & General Insurance) 79 Achimota Road, Lexta Square Ebony Crescent (Off the Olusegun Obasanjo Highway), Accra PMB CT 353, Cantonments - Accra Tel General: (+233) 302 764 893/94 Tel Life: (+233) 302 267 892 E: allianz.ghana@allianz.com www.allianz-gh.com

Language Services

AST Language Services Ltd Unit 8, Ayr Street, Nottingham NG7 4FX United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 115 970 5633 F: +44 (0) 845 051 8780 E: office@astls.co.uk www.astlanguage.com

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Priority Current Enjoy priority services, exclusive lifestyle beneﬁts and great insurance packages for you and your family with this ﬂexible transaction account.

MARKET EXPERTS

Banking/Financial Services

Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited 1st Floor Manet Tower 3 Airport City - Accra P. O. Box PMB CT363, Cantonments Accra, Ghana T: +233 (0) 302-216000 E: info@cbg.com.gh

Bank/Financial Services

Fidelity Bank Ghana Limited Ridge Tower, 10 Ambassadorial Enclave, West Ridge, Accra, Ghana T: 3355 (Toll Free for domestic customers) +233 (0) 302819292 (For overseas customers) E: wecare@myfidelitybank.net www.fidelitybank.com.gh

Security/Risk Management Services

G4S Security Services (Ghana) Ltd Accra 31 Second Labone Street/By Pass Road, Labone, Accra Ghana PMB CT 189, Cantonments, Accra Telephone: (+233) 0302 779 570 (+233) 0303 975 256 (+233) 0303 975 258 Fax: (+233) 0302 770 689 Email: administration@gh.g4s.com www.g4s.com.gh Sales Enquiries: (+233) 0544 337 447 (+233) 0544 348 746 Email: sales@gh.g4s.com www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

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MARKET EXPERTS

Trade Facilitation (export, transit and import) Services

Ghana Trade Hub Ghana Revenue Authority Off Starlets’ 91 Road near Accra Sports Stadium Accra - Ghana. T: +233 (0) 242435663 E: support@ghanastradinghub.com www.ghanastradinghub.gov.gh Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/Ghanatradehub Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ghana tradehub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ in/ghanatradehub/ Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/ photos/westblueconsulting/albums Youtube: https://www.youtube.com /channel/UCuYvjrmO8zlodFTcSmk lAug

Insurance

Hollard Ghana 1 Patrice Lumumba Road Airport Residential Area P. O. Box GP 20084, Accra, Ghana GPS: 5.603026, -0.189267 T: +(233 302) 220966 E: info@hollard.com.gh www.hollard.com.gh

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Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

MARKET EXPERTS

Auditors, Tax Advisors/Consultants, Payroll Managers & Business Advisors

IKERN & ASSOCIATES IKERN House No. 12 Right-Off Cemetery Junction Agbogba, North Legon, Accra - Ghana Postal: P. O. Box MD1132, Madina T: +233(0)302967403 E: info@ikernassociates.com www.ikernassociates.com

Steel Building Structures and Constructions/Structural Engineering

JOHN REID & SONS (STRUCSTEEL) LTD 3 Reid Street, Christchurch DORSET BH23 2BT, England T: + 44 (0) 1202 483333 E: Sales@reidsteel.co.uk www.reidsteel.com

Accountants/Professional Business Services

KPMG P.O. Box GP 242 13 Yiyiwa Drive Marlin House Abelenkpe Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 (0)302 770454, 770618 Tel: +233 (0)302 777173, 770712 Fax: +233 302 771 500 E: info@kpmg.com.gh www.kpmg.com/gh

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Leading The Way

Client dedication Our clients’ interests are paramount. We put the client at the core of our business. We do whatever it takes to help clients achieve their goals in Africa with proficiency and effectiveness. We go the extra mile for our clients. We do all we can to help you succeed. Get in touch: info@oriolassociates.co.uk

MARKET EXPERTS

Conglomerate/Joint Ventures

LMI Holdings Limited 1 EL Senoussi Street off Independence Avenue Ridge-Accra T: +233 (0) 552030000 +233 (0) 552040000 E: enquiries@diz-ghana.com

ICT/Telecommunications

MTN Ghana Whatsapp/Call: 0244308111 Email: mtnbusiness.GH@mtn.com Webpage: mtn.com.gh/business Twitter: @MTNBusinessGH Linkedin: MTN Ghana

Law/Legal & Strategic Business Advisory Services

Oriol Associates 29 Farm Street, London W1J 5RL, UK T: +44 (020) 3170 7951 +44 (020) 3170 7932 E: info@oriolassociates.co.uk

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MARKET EXPERTS

School

Owl's Nest International School Shippi Close, East Cantonments, Accra T: +233245113227 E: theowlsnest@live.co.uk http://theowlsnest.info Facebook: The Owl’s Nest International School For further information please contact: School Administration on T: +233245113227 E: theowlsnest@live.co.uk or theowlsnestschool1@gmail.com

Mining Contractors

PW Mining International Ltd Mining Contractors 10 Abidjan Avenue, East Legon Accra, Ghana T: +233 302 518 112 E: pwg@pwmil.com www.pwmil.com

Recruitment

Rakes Recruitment Company Ltd P. O. Box SK 739, Sakumono Accra Ghana Physical Address: Rakes House C86 East-La (Tse-Addo) Accra Ghana Branches: Accra, Takoradi, Kumasi and Tamale T: +233 (30) 7011154, T: +233 (20) 8169764, T: +233 (20) 246 090909 www.rakescompany.com 207

Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

MARKET EXPERTS

Research Development & Financial Consultants/Joint Venture Services Oil & Gas

RDFC AFRICA F676/1, Angola Road, Kuku Hill, Osu P.O. Box OS 0854, Osu Accra, Ghana Tel: +233 302 767921 +233 302 767919 Email: market.entry@rdfc.africa Website: www.rdfc.africa Insurance

Serene Insurance Company Limited 4th Floor SU Towers Ridge Accra P.O.Box PMB CO 90 T: 233 (0) 302917444/ T: 233 (0) 302917446 E: info@sereneinsurance.com www.sereneinsurance.com

Banking/Financial Services

Standard Chartered Bank Ghana Limited # 87 Independence Avenue, Accra Telephone & Facsimile numbers: +233 (0)302 610750 / +233 (0)302 667751 Email: RobertObeng.Botwe@sc.com / Clemencia.Tetteh@sc.com Website: www.sc.com/gh www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

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MARKET EXPERTS

Hotel

The African Regent Hotel 237/238 Airport West, Accra Airport Residential Area T: 0302 765180 – 2 E: info@african-regent-hotel.com www.theafricanregenthotel.com

Shipping & Logistics

Transglobal Logistics Limited Logistics Service 134 Commercial Warehouse Area Tema Main Harbour PO BOX 3108 Tema, Accra, Ghana Phone: +233303202222/ +233244231401 Fax: +233303206568 E: trans@transglobalgh.com www.transglobalgh.com

ICT/Telecommunications

Vodafone Business Ghana Vodafone Ghana Headquarters South Liberation Link Manet Tower A Airport City Accra Ghana T: 0302334040 E: vodafonebusiness.gh@ vodafone.com Vodafone.com.gh/business

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Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

MARKET EXPERTS

ICT/Business Consultancy Services

West Blue Consulting Ghana: 5th Floor New Cocoshe Building Agostino Netto Close Airport Accra, Ghana. PMB 74, Cantonments Post Office, Accra-Ghana. T: +233 (0) 302766968 T: +233 (0) 302766904 Nigeria: Sunshine Estate No B21 David Garnvwa Street Gwarinpa Abuja. T: +234 (0) 92914821 E:info@westblueconsulting.com www.westblueconsulting.com Facebook: https://www.face book.com/WestblueConsulting/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/west blueltd LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com /in/westblueconsulting/ Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/ photos/westblueconsulting

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Trade shows

A trade show is a method of promoting a business through the exhibition of goods and services, an organised exhibition of products, based on a central theme, where manufacturers meet to show their products to potential buyers. Taking part in overseas exhibitions is an effective way for you to test markets, attract customers, appoint agents or distributors and make sales. DIT's Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP) provides grant support for eligible SME firms to attend trade shows overseas. Participation is usually as part of a group, a great advantage for inexperienced businesses, and is usually led by one of DIT's Accredited Trade Associations (ATOs). ATOs work with DIT to raise the profile of UK groups and sectors at key exhibitions. For more information visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tradeshow-access-programme.

IOE&IT’s events: www.export.org.uk/events/event _list.asp 10 Times (formerly BizTradeShows.com): https://10times.com/ghana British Expertise Events: https://www.britishexpertise.org/ events/ EventsEye.com online database: www.eventseye.com DIT online events search facility: https://www.events.great.gov.uk/ ehome/index.php?eventid= 200183029&

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Useful Links Country information:

Export ﬁnance & insurance:

BBC Website: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/country _profiles/default.stm

British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA): www.biba.org.uk

FCDO Country Profile: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-traveladvice/ghana

UK Export Finance (UKEF): www.gov.uk/government/organisations /uk-export-finance

Culture & communications: ICC – The international language association: http://www.icc-languages.eu/ Customs & regulations: HM Revenue & Customs: https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/hm-revenue-customs Economic information: The Economist: https://www.economist.com/search Trading Economics: www.tradingeconomics.com Export control: Export Control Joint Unit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ beginners-guide-to-export-controls

Intellectual Property: Intellectual Property Office: https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/intellectual-property-office World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO): https://wipolex.wipo.int/en/text/288514 Standards & technical regulations: British Standards Institution (BSI): https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/ industries-and-sectors/import-export/ Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU): https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/export-control-organisation Intellectual Property Office: https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/intellectual-property-office National Physical Laboratory: http://www.npl.co.uk/

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Trade statistics: HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC): https://www.uktradeinfo.com/tradedata National Statistics Information: https://www.gov.uk/search/researchand-statistics?content_store_document _type=upcoming_statistics Office for National Statistics: http://www.ons.gov.uk/ Trade shows:

TravelHealthPro: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries NHS (Scotland): http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/ destinations.aspx NHS Choices: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/health care-abroad/ International trade: British Chambers of Commerce (BCC): www.britishchambers.org.uk

British Expertise Events: https://www.britishexpertise.org/events/

British Council: www.britishcouncil.org

EventsEye.com online database: www.eventseye.com

British Expertise: www.britishexpertise.org

DIT Events Portal: https://www.events.great.gov.uk/ehome /index.php?eventid=200183029&

British Franchise Association: http://www.thebfa.org/international

Travel advice: FCDO Travel: www.gov.uk/browse/abroad FCDO Foreign Travel Insurance: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/foreigntravel-insurance Healthcare abroad:

Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI): http://www.cpni.gov.uk/ Confederation of British Industry (CBI): www.cbi.org.uk Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS): https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/department-for-businessenergy-and-industrial-strategy

Travel Health: www.travelhealth.co.uk

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Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

Department for International Trade (DIT): https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/department-forinternational-trade

Overseas Business Risk: https://www.gov.uk/government/ collections/overseas-business-risk

DIT E-Exporting Programme: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/selling-online-overseas-with-the-digital-exportingprogramme

Transparency International: http://www.transparency.org/

Exporting is GREAT: https://www.great.gov.uk/

UK Trade Tariff: https://www.gov.uk/trade-tariff

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/foreign-commonwealthdevelopment-office Heritage Foundation Index of Economic Freedom: https://www.heritage.org/index/ranking Institute of Directors (IoD): www.iod.com Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT): www.export.org.uk International Monetary Fund (IMF): https://www.imf.org/en/home Open to Export: http://opentoexport.com/

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): http://www.oecd.org/

UK Visas: https://www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration World Bank Group economy rankings: http://www.doingbusiness.org/en/rankings World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report: http://reports.weforum.org/globalcompetitiveness-report-2019/ Ghana websites: Attorney-General & Ministry of Justice: http://www.mojagd.gov.gh/ Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority: http://www.dvla.gov.gh/ Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS): https://www.ecowas.int/

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Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): http://www.epa.gov.gh/epa/

Ministry of Business Development: http://mobd.gov.gh/

Ghana Education Service (GES): https://ges.gov.gh/

Ministry of Communications, Ghana: https://www.moc.gov.gh/

Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA): https://gfzb.gov.gh/

Ministry of Education: http://moe.gov.gh/

Ghana High Commission UK and Republic of Ireland: http://www.ghanahighcommissionuk.com/

Ministry of Energy, Ghana: https://www.energymin.gov.gh/

Ghana Immigration Service: https://home.gis.gov.gh/ Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC): https://gipc.gov.gh/ Ghana Ministry Of Defence: https://mod.gov.gh/ Ghana Ports & Harbours Authority: https://www.ghanaports.gov.gh/ Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA): https://gra.gov.gh/ Ghana Standards Authority: https://www.gsa.gov.gh/ Ghana Stock Exchange: https://gse.com.gh/ Minerals Commission Ghana: http://www.mincom.gov.gh/

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Ministry of Finance Ghana: https://www.mofep.gov.gh/ Ministry of Food & Agriculture: http://mofa.gov.gh/site/ Ministry of Health, Ghana: http://www.moh.gov.gh/ Ministry of the Interior: https://www.mint.gov.gh/ Ministry of Trade and Industry: http://www.moti.gov.gh/ Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture: http://motac.gov.gh/ Ministry of Transport - Ghana: http://www.mot.gov.gh/ National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA): http://www.nhis.gov.gh/nhia.aspx

Visit the Website and download the free Mobile App

National Identification Authority: https://nia.gov.gh/ Parliament of Ghana: https://www.parliament.gh/ Petroleum Commission Ghana: https://www.petrocom.gov.gh/ Public Procurement Authority Ghana: https://ppa.gov.gh/ Registrar General's Department: https://rgd.gov.gh/ UK–Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC): https://ukgcc.com.gh/

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MTN Business

Work at the speed of y’ello. Boost your productivity with MTN Fibre Broadband only on Ghana’s fastest network. Just dial *5057# to connect today! WhatsApp/Call: 0244308111 Email: MTNFibreBroadband.gh@mtn.com

# WeDey4U

everywhere you go

mtn.com.gh/business

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Disclaimer Whereas every effort has been made to ensure that the information given in this Guide is accurate, neither International Market Advisor (IMA), the Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT), the British High Commission Accra, the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC), UK Export Finance (UKEF), Department for International Trade (DIT), or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), accept liability for any errors, omissions or misleading statements and no warranty is given or responsibility accepted as to the standing of any individual, firm, company or other organisation mentioned. The purpose of the Doing Business Guides, prepared by International Market Advisor (IMA) is to provide information to help recipients form their own judgments about making business decisions as to whether to invest or operate in a particular country. The report's contents were believed (at the time that the report was prepared) to be reliable, but no representations or warranties, express or implied, are made or given by IMA, the IOE&IT, the British High Commission Accra, the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC), UKEF, DIT or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) as to the accuracy of the report, its completeness or its suitability for any purpose.

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In particular, none of the report's contents should be construed as advice or solicitation to purchase or sell securities, commodities or any other form of financial instrument. No liability is accepted by IMA, IOE&IT, the British High Commission Accra, the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC), UKEF, DIT, or the FCDO for any loss or damage (whether consequential or otherwise) which may arise out of or in connection with the report. No warranty is given, or responsibility accepted as to the standing of any individual, firm, company or other organisation mentioned. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

www.Ghana.DoingBusinessGuide.co.uk

Quick facts Location: Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Cote d'Ivoire and Togo Area: 238,533 km2 Population: 30.78 million Urban population: 57.3% Capital city: Accra GDP per capita: US $2,225.5 Languages: English (official), Asante 16%, Ewe 14%, Fante 11.6%, Boron (Brong) 4.9%, Dagomba 4.4%, Dangme 4.2%, Dagarte (Dagaba) 3.9%, Kokomba 3.5%, Akyem 3.2%, Ga 3.1%, other 31.2% (2010 est.) Religion: Christian 71.2% (Pentecostal/Charismatic 28.3%, Protestant 18.4%, Catholic 13.1%, other 11.4%), Muslim 17.6%, traditional 5.2%, other 0.8%, none 5.2% (2010 est.) Government: presidential republic Legal system: mixed system of English common law and customary law Currency: Ghanaian Cedi (GHS) Climate: tropical; warm and comparatively dry along southeast coast; hot and humid in southwest; hot and dry in north Natural resources: gold, timber, industrial diamonds, bauxite, manganese, ﬁsh, rubber, hydropower, petroleum, silver, salt, limestone Natural hazards: dry, dusty, northeastern harmattan winds from January to March; droughts Time difference: UTC 0 Internet country code: .gh National holidays: Independence Day, 6th March (1957) National symbols: black star, golden eagle; national colours: red, yellow, green, black

[Source – FCDO Economics Unit, CIA World Factbook (December 2021)]

& INTERNATIONAL TRADE

www.export.org.uk

@ioexport

Choosing a great export training partner can really help your company take off in international trade! We can help develop new ideas and find ways to drive down costs and produce sustainable improvements in your export business. Our team of experts can help with questions on documentation, export controls, Bribery Act, Customs & VAT procedures, regulatory and compliance issues, insurance issues, payment terms, transport and logistics... Join us today

Membership : Training : Qualifications : Advice

Call: +44 (0) 1733 404 400 : email: institute@export.org.uk

Doing Business with Ghana Guide

Articles inside

Map of Ghana

Why Ghana?

Business etiquette, language & culture

Sector–specific opportunities

IOE&IT qualifications

Getting here and advice about your stay

What does membership of the Institute of Export & International Trade mean?

Preparing to export

The British High Commission Accra