By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY Takoradi
The Rubber Value Chain Actors Registration and Licensing Authority (TCDA) has issued a regulation requiring all participants in the rubber supply chain to register and obtain licenses.
The initiative is a component of broader reforms designed to improve adherence, boost transparency, and prepare Ghana's rubber sector for international competition.
The Organization stated that new procedures, such as the implementation of a transport certificate and required export licenses, will guarantee responsibility throughout each phase of the supply chain.
"These actions go beyond red tape. They serve as protections for farmers, ensure equitable trade, and maintain Ghana's global standing," the Authority emphasized.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TCDA, Andy Osei Okrah, issued the instruction during a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy CEO-Operations, Rich Kofi Tuo, at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Natural Rubber Producers in Ghana (ANRAG) held in Takoradi.
The gathering included a wide range of participants—farmers, processors, exporters, traders, service providers, and related businesses from the Western, Eastern, and Central Regions. The event focused on the theme "Strengthening Ghana's Rubber Value Chain through Unity, Innovation, and Sustainability: From Farm to Industry – Growing Together for Global Competitiveness."
In addition to regulatory measures, the CEO revealed initiatives aimed at increasing production. "As part of the Ghana Tree Crops Diversification Project, two million premium rubber seedlings will be provided to farmers to increase planting and enhance output. Farmers will also gain from improved extension services and the implementation of contemporary agricultural techniques to promote environmental sustainability."
He stressed that Ghana should go beyond exporting raw materials to fully realize the possibilities within the rubber sector.
He emphasized value addition as the new area of focus, shifting from the export of Technically Specified Rubber (TSR) to manufacturing tyres, gloves, adhesives, medical supplies, and various industrial goods.
"The real prosperity of rubber comes from finished products. By expanding processing and downstream manufacturing, we can generate thousands of jobs, keep more value in Ghana, and establish our country as a center for rubber-related industries in West Africa," he said.
Mr. Okrah highlighted trade promotion and market access as essential goals, emphasizing the importance of establishing reliable international and regional markets, advancing certification processes to enhance competitiveness, and prominently displaying Ghanaian rubber at global trade exhibitions.
He also called for the creation of systems to protect farmers from fluctuations in the global market.
He emphasized the significance of cooperation throughout the supply chain, encouraging partners to engage closely with TCDA and ANRAG via meaningful discussions instead of public disputes.
"The seeds we sow today in governance, adherence to rules, research, funding, and development will ensure Ghana's wealth for many years ahead," he added.
President of ANRAG
Emmanel Akwesi Owusu, head of ANRAG, recognized that the natural rubber industry encounters various challenges, such as price fluctuations and sustainability issues, insufficient investment in processing, and adherence to new global regulations like the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Nevertheless, he emphasized the significant opportunities available, especially in enhancing value, expanding exports, promoting environmental sustainability, and generating income within rubber-producing communities.
He stated that the association's main focuses are promoting the well-being of small-scale farmers, drawing investment into processing sectors, and enhancing sustainability and traceability frameworks to comply with global market standards.
"Our objective is to make sure that Ghana not only continues to produce natural rubber, but also emerges as a strong competitor in the international market," he stressed.
Vice President of WRHC
The Deputy President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs (WRHC) and Omanhene of Lower Dixcove, Nana Kwesi Agyemang XI, has urged an immediate prohibition on the export of unprocessed rubber from Ghana.
He pointed out that the practice is harming local processors and weakening the nation's industrialization plan.
He voiced worry regarding the increasing export of raw rubber during a period when local factories are having difficulty obtaining sufficient basic materials.
"The House is deeply worried. We recognize the scarcity of raw rubber for local manufacturers, and we think exports should stop until there is sufficient supply within the country. We are looking into a formal discussion with the Minister of Trade, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, and other relevant parties to tackle this issue," he said.
He mentioned the case of Ghana Rubber Estates Limited (GREL), which has had to reduce its operations from a three-shift schedule to only one because of the shortage of raw materials.
"This scenario highlights the pressing requirement for a policy evaluation," Nana Agyemang emphasized.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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