Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare launches Ghana Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Policy

The Minister for Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has officially launched the Cabinet-approved Ghana Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Policy, a strategic initiative designed to significantly bolster domestic drug production. Announced on October 28, 2026, the policy aims to double the market share of locally manufactured medicines from the current 30% to 60%. This development is a key component of President John Mahama’s broader vision to achieve 70% national self-sufficiency in essential commodities, reducing the country's heavy reliance on imported pharmaceutical products.

The new policy framework focuses on three critical pillars: aligning investment with regulatory requirements, streamlining public procurement processes, and elevating quality standards across the industry. By creating a more conducive environment for local manufacturers, the government intends to transform Ghana into a dominant pharmaceutical hub within the West African sub-region. Minister Ofosu-Adjare emphasized that the policy will provide the necessary roadmap to ensure that local companies can compete effectively on both domestic and international stages.

To support this industrial growth, the government has committed to assisting local pharmaceutical firms in attaining World Health Organization (WHO) certifications. The policy also outlines measures to enhance access to specialized financing and expand market reach for local producers. These efforts are expected to strengthen the technical capabilities of Ghanaian manufacturers, ensuring that locally produced drugs meet international safety and efficacy standards while contributing to job creation within the high-value manufacturing sector.

Beyond domestic supply, the Ghana Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Policy is positioned to leverage regional trade agreements to promote exports. By strengthening local production capacities, Ghana aims to become a net exporter of medicines to neighboring countries, further stabilizing the national economy. The initiative marks a significant shift toward industrial sovereignty, ensuring that the country’s healthcare system is supported by a robust and resilient local manufacturing base.