The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, on Friday, December 19, visited the Ekumfi Juice Factory to explore how the facility can benefit from the government’s 24-Hour Economy policy.

The visit was aimed at assessing the factory’s operations and identifying opportunities to boost production, create jobs, and add value to locally sourced fruits.

Addressing the press during the tour, Ms. Ofosu-Adjare reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local agro-processing companies, emphasizing their crucial role in reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing farmer incomes.

“The 24-Hour Economy initiative presents significant opportunities for factories like Ekumfi Juice to scale up production and efficiently meet both domestic and export demands, especially within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” she stated.

Frederick Kobbyna Acquaah, Operations Manager of the Ekumfi Juice Factory, briefed the Minister on the company’s production processes, current capacity, and the challenges it faces.

Mr. Acquaah highlighted difficulties in accessing finance, ensuring a reliable power supply, and consistently sourcing raw materials. However, he expressed optimism about the factory’s future with continued government support.

“We commend the government for prioritizing agribusiness and local manufacturing. Targeted policy interventions will enable us to expand, create more jobs for our youth, and contribute significantly to the local economy,” he said.

The Minister and the press toured the factory’s farms, observing the large-scale cultivation of oranges, guava, and passion fruit, which are essential for juice production.

Management revealed plans to establish a new fruit juice processing plant in the Central Region by 2026.

Ms. Ofosu-Adjare assured the company of the Ministry’s collaboration with relevant agencies to address its challenges and foster a conducive environment for agro-industrial growth.

The visit is part of the Ministry’s broader engagement with local industries to promote inclusive industrial development and advance the government’s economic transformation agenda.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE