Platform to address concerns of free zones enterprises launched
The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has launched a new platform to provide spot-on solutions to some of the teething challenges facing free zones enterprises in the country.
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Dubbed: the ‘AfterCare’, it will act as a bridge between enterprises and the authority, addressing their pertinent questions and concerns, and deliver an effective customer service support to businesses.
The move is to help create an enabling environment to improve ease of doing business in the country and build a robust economy.
In the last couple of years, the Ghanaian economy has been going through some economic downturn which has compelled the government to take some measures to curb the situation.
Some of the measures, including the increase in utility tariffs, are negatively affecting operations of free zones enterprises, hence the platform to help address those difficulties.
At the launch of the platform at the maiden edition of the GFZA Business Support Interaction in Accra yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), Michael Oquaye Jnr, said the Free Zones Scheme had been an integral part of the country's economic growth.
“Over the years, the Free Zones Scheme has achieved significant milestones. Today, we are happy to say we have over 200 companies across various sectors of the economy generating over $1.9 billion in exports in the year 2022 and creating over 60,000 direct jobs since its creation,” he said.
The event held on the theme: “Driving business growth through sustainable access to resources, information, and markets,” brought together representatives of free zones enterprises, key personnel of the authority and stakeholder institutions in the banking sector and the Ghana Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to discuss pertinent issues of most concern to the free zones enterprises.
Redesigned website
Mr Oquaye explained that in recent times, the authority had dedicated itself to extensive digitisation efforts to enhance business accessibility.
As part of the initiative, the authority had completely redesigned its website to provide a seamless experience for prospective investors.
The user-friendly platform allows them to easily navigate through the various sections, access relevant information, and efficiently complete the license application process.
It also offers a comprehensive overview of the Free Zones license, highlighting the benefits and opportunities available to investors.
He explained that the goal in revamping the website was to streamline the application process and make it hassle-free for investors, no matter where they were.
“By embracing this innovative digital system, we aim to attract a greater number of investors to Ghana's free zones, promoting economic growth and development.
“We are excited to be at the forefront of this digital revolution and invite investors from around the world to explore the opportunities on our website,” Mr Oquaye said.