Trade Ministry launches pharmaceutical policy to double local medicine production

The Ghana government has unveiled a new policy aimed at doubling the country's production of pharmaceuticals, creating skilled jobs, and establishing the nation as a key player in pharmaceutical manufacturing in West Africa. The Trade Minister, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, announced the Cabinet-approved Ghana Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Policy during its launch in Accra on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

The policy seeks to address Ghana's reliance on imported medicines, which presently make up about 70% of the country's medicine supply.

The policy aims to boost the local production of medicines from the current 30% to 60% of the domestic market, with the long-term goal of reaching 70% local pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, as outlined by President John Mahama. Ofosu-Adjare emphasized that the importance of producing medicines locally cannot be overstated, stating that a country that cannot manufacture its essential medicines leaves its health, economy, and sovereignty vulnerable.

The new policy provides a coordinated framework to guide investment, regulation, public procurement, skills development, and regional trade in support of local pharmaceutical manufacturers. It is built on six key pillars: improving the quality of locally produced medicines to meet international standards, expanding market access for domestic producers, offering affordable, long-term financing, obtaining World Health Organisation Good Manufacturing Practice certification and prequalification, and prioritizing quality medicines produced in Ghana through public procurement and the National Health Insurance Scheme.

In terms of financing, the policy encourages partnerships with Development Bank Ghana, Ghana EXIM Bank, and GIPA to facilitate long-term funding for pharmaceutical businesses. The policy also seeks to push the industry beyond the production of packaging to encompass the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, and vaccines.