Ghanaian manufacturers wail at dwindling patronage of products

Manufacturers in Ghana are experiencing tough times in marketing their products because consumers are cash strapped.

This is according to Mr. Robert Kwaakye Nketia, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI).

He says the dwindling fortunes of the manufacturers are compounded by the unbridled importation of products which can be produced locally.

According to him, product quality has improved significantly over the years but low patronage continues to be the bane of growth for local producers.

“Cash is difficult to come by in our country today and manufactures are having problems selling their products, especially when what we produce we have this kind of dumping from outside the country and they have so many ways of bringing our businesses down”, stated Mr. Nketia.

He believes government can solve the problem of unfair imports but wants “Ghanaians to accept the fact that it is better for us to buy 'Made in Ghana' for us to grow the country”.

“As and when we grow the industries and they become profitable, other Ghanaians will come in and the competition will be very high”, he added.

Mr. Nketia raised the concerns at the studio launch of Luv Fm's Reduction Sales which holds at the Golden Tulip Round Pavilion in Kumasi on July 27-29, 2012.

Manufacturers, distributors and retailers in Kumasi will mount stands to sell to thousands of customers.

The AGI Chair entreated exhibitors at the Luv Fm Reduction Sales to take maximum advantage by reducing prices to offload products as well as exhibit, sample or introduce new products and services.

The fair will provide a one stop-shop for shoppers to access goods and services at reduced and discounted prices.

Sales Manager at Luv Fm, Isaac Antwi says dozens of exhibitors from diverse trades and professions have registered to be part of the Reduction Sales.

Luv Fm has lined up series of side attractions to excite families trooping to the fair grounds.

Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh/Luv Fm/Ghana