How to Start Exporting from Ghana: A Guide for Manufacturers

To learn how to export from Ghana, start with three basics: register your business with the Registrar-General's Department, register with the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), and get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) or GhanaCard PIN from the Ghana Revenue Authority. Then you file your customs declaration electronically, get the right product permit, and present your goods for inspection at the port or border. This guide explains each step and tells you where we could not verify details.

This is general information. Rules and fees change, so confirm current requirements with GEPA, Ghana Customs and the product agency before you ship.

Step 1: Register your business and your tax number

Ghana Revenue Authority guidance lists the basic requirements for an exporter. You register your company with the Registrar-General's Department. You get a TIN, or use your GhanaCard PIN. These two papers are the base for almost every other approval, so keep copies ready.

Step 2: GEPA registration

GEPA is the agency that promotes non-traditional exports from Ghana. The customs guidance says exporters should be registered with the export promotion body, which issues a registration number. A GEPA official has also said that registered exporters can benefit from the agency's services, such as guidance on exporting and training through its Export School. We could not confirm the current GEPA registration form, fee or timeline, so please ask GEPA directly. GEPA registration also helps when you look for support and buyer introductions.

Traditional and non-traditional exports

Ghana splits exports into two groups. Traditional exports include cocoa beans, logs, electricity, fresh fish, fresh yams and unprocessed mineral ore. The list can change with government policy. Non-traditional exports are everything else. Most factory products, such as processed foods, soaps, furniture, textiles and packaging, are non-traditional exports. The route is a little simpler for non-traditional goods. Traditional exports also need an exchange control form (Form A2) from your bank.

Export documents Ghana customs expects

The main document is the customs declaration. It is completed electronically and submitted through the Integrated Customs Management System, known as ICUMS. You attach the supporting papers. Typical export documents Ghana exporters prepare include:

Commercial invoice and packing list
Product permits or certificates (see next section)
Certificate of origin where the buyer or the trade scheme needs it
Transport document from your forwarder or shipping line

After you submit, customs validates the declaration. You then present the goods at the export seat at the port or border post for inspection. If customs is satisfied, the goods are released. Many exporters use a licensed clearing agent for this. Ask your agent which papers they need from you.

Permits and Ghana Standards Authority export checks

Which permit you need depends on your product. The customs guidance lists, for example:

Manufactured or processed goods: a Ghana Standards Authority permit.
Food and farm produce: a phytosanitary certificate from the plant protection authority.
Cocoa, coffee, shea nuts and cashew nuts: a COCOBOD export permit.
Palm oil: a permit from the Food and Drugs Authority.
Pharmaceuticals: permits from the Ministry of Health and the Food and Drugs Authority.

The Ghana Standards Authority export process is where many factories need help. The GSA handles certification of products and services. The Food and Drugs Authority handles approvals for food, drugs, cosmetics and similar goods. In 2020 reports, the two agencies said they were harmonising processes so businesses could deal with both more easily, and one news report said approval time fell from four to six weeks to about four days. Treat that as a news report, not a promise. Ask both agencies for today's process. For a wider look at standards bodies across Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana, read our guide to product certification for African manufacturers.

Ghana export incentives

We could not verify a current list of Ghana export incentives, rates or eligibility rules from official sources, so we will not list any here. Ask GEPA and the Ministry of Trade and Industry what support, grants or duty relief is open to you today. Also ask your bank about export finance. Our article on getting paid by foreign buyers covers the payment side.

Choose products and markets to export products from Ghana

Pick products where you can supply the same quality every time. Many factories that export products from Ghana start in West Africa, because shipping is closer and trade rules may be easier. If you qualify, AfCFTA preferences may lower tariffs in other African markets. Read AfCFTA rules of origin explained to check your product. For ECOWAS and regional trade, see selling across African borders.

A simple starting plan

Register the company and get your TIN or GhanaCard PIN.
Register with GEPA.
Find out the permit your product needs and start that application early.
Agree price, delivery term and payment terms with your buyer in writing.
Hire a licensed clearing agent and a freight forwarder.
File the customs declaration and present the goods for inspection.
Receive payment through your bank and keep all records.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an export licence in Ghana? Not one general licence for all goods, based on the customs guidance we reviewed. Instead, you need registrations and product-specific permits. Confirm for your product with GEPA and Ghana Customs.

What is ICUMS? It is the electronic customs system where export declarations are submitted.

Is Form A2 needed for my products? The guidance says it applies to traditional exports. Non-traditional exporters should confirm with their bank.

Where do I find buyers? Through trade fairs, GEPA, direct outreach and online marketplaces where buyers post requests.

Getting started

When your papers are in order, you can start talking to buyers. Ready to reach buyers? Apply as a supplier on Comilmart — there are no listing fees to get started.