Free Zones Authority @30: Bags $35Bn in Export Revenue, over 40,000Jobs, Eyes Special Economic Zones

The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has launched its 30th anniversary celebrations, spotlighting three decades of investment promotion, industrialisation, and export-led growth that have generated over $35 billion in exports and created more than 40,000 jobs.

Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Officer Mary Awusi described the milestone as a turning point for the Authority’s future ambitions.
“Thirty years is indeed a significant milestone. From a modest office near the Ministry of Trade, the GFZA has evolved into a key driver of investment, industrial growth, and exports, contributing over $35 billion in export value and creating more than 40,000 jobs,” she said.

Awusi outlined a strategic agenda centred on investment promotion, digital transformation, strategic partnerships, and infrastructure expansion to enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in the global economy.

Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, who also chairs the GFZA Board, said the Authority remains integral to the country’s industrialisation drive.
“Thirty years on, the GFZA stands as a critical pillar in Ghana’s trade and industrialisation agenda. The theme, ‘Three Decades of Impact: Empowering Businesses, Transforming Trade in Ghana’, reflects both the journey so far and our bold vision for the future,” she said.

She reaffirmed government plans to transition from Export Processing Zones to Special Economic Zones, with a focus on agribusiness, renewable energy, ICT, logistics, and advanced manufacturing, sectors identified as critical to export diversification and job creation.

The launch, attended by officials from the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, and the Ghana International Trade Commission, sets the stage for a series of activities including a business forum, exhibitions, awards gala, and CSR initiatives.

The Authority’s shift toward Special Economic Zones is seen as a step to attract long-term investment, strengthen regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and position the country as a preferred hub for investors looking at Africa’s growing markets.

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