Els: MBN360 Business
The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has launched a robust compliance-first initiative to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s special economic zones with a landmark training session, where the Authority gathered 29 newly licensed companies to undergo a comprehensive induction into the legal and operational rigors of the Free Zones Scheme.
Led by the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mary Awusi, the engagement at GFZA’s Accra headquarters signalled a shift toward proactive regulation, ensuring that the next wave of industrial giants enters the Ghanaian market with a deep-seated understanding of their statutory obligations.
“As Ghana continues to position itself as the industrial gateway to West Africa, the GFZA is increasingly focusing on quality over quantity, emphasizing that the generous tax exemptions and market access incentives offered by the state are contingent upon strict adherence to the Free Zones Act (Act 504)”GFZA
For Dr. Awusi – the first female CEO in the Authority’s history – this onboarding process was not merely an administrative hurdle but a strategic partnership designed to prevent the regulatory friction that can often derail large-scale foreign direct investment.
The core message of the 2026 induction was clear: “compliance is the engine of sustainability.” Dr. Mary Awusi reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to providing an enabling environment, but she was equally firm on the role of the private sector in ensuring sustainable business operations and national development.
By equipping these 29 new enterprises with a “compliance-first” mindset, the GFZA’s goal is to eliminate the risks of non-conformity, which can lead to costly penalties or the revocation of valuable export license
360-Degree Support Ecosystem
To ensure a seamless transition for the newly licensed firms, the GFZA deployed a multi-departmental team of experts to lead the training modules.
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Officials from Compliance, Monitoring, Management Information Systems (MIS), Administration, Marketing, Business Development and Finance provided granular insights into the day-to-day realities of operating within a tax-exempt environment.
The session went beyond simple paperwork, offering practical guidance on everything from digital reporting standards to leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for expanded market reach.
By making the Authority’s internal procedures clearer, the GFZA is reducing the “bureaucratic drag“ that often plagues new market entrants, allowing these 29 companies to move from licensing to production in record time.
A significant portion of the training was dedicated to the Business Development and Research division, which is currently focused on helping Free Zones enterprises navigate the complexities of the AfCFTA.
As Ghanaian-manufactured goods seek to penetrate new African markets, understanding the specific “Rules of Origin,” and quality standards is essential. The training strengthened the partnership between the state and the private sector, ensuring that these new investors are not just manufacturing for export, but are doing so with a clear competitive advantage.
“Through this engagement, the Authority reaffirmed its commitment to building a robust quality infrastructure system that expands market access, protects consumers, and supports Ghana’s industrial growth agenda”GFZA
By the time the session concluded, the 29 new licensees were equipped with more than just a certificate; they possessed a roadmap for navigating one of the most attractive investment regimes in Africa, backed by a state Authority that is as committed to their success as it is to the nation’s progress.
