By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, Nov. 29, GNA-Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana have called on citizens to support local businesses by purchasing made-in-Ghana products during the holiday season to create more economic opportunities.
They said that the overwhelming trend of buying imported goods during the Yuletide season often resulted in significant losses for indigenous businesses, which hampered job creation and stifled economic growth.
The call was made at the Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG) Christmas Fair for SMEs, held at the bank’s SME Centre in Accra.
The event provided 50 vendors the chance to showcase their products, which ranged from food, clothing, poultry, and semi-processed agricultural goods.
Miss Abigail Amegashie, a textile vendor, stressed the importance of choosing Ghanaian-made textiles during Christmas, saying that such products carried both cultural and economic significance.
She said wearing Ghanaian textiles, which often featured symbols and inscriptions representing the nation’s history, would not only promote Ghana’s culture but also attract tourists and boost the country’s export potential.
Ms. Amegashie also applauded CBG for organizing the fair, saying it bridged the gap between sellers and buyers.
Ghana imports a wide range of Christmas goods, including products from countries like China, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
In 2023, Ghana imported $225 million worth of Christmas items, with China, the Netherlands, and the USA being the top suppliers.
Ms. Vida Otoo, General Manager of Love and Kind Catering Services, urged Ghanaians to prioritise local food and beverage brands for the festive season.
She called on the government to take inspiration from companies like CBG by regularly organizing fairs to support SMEs.
Mr. Emmanuel Nikoi, Director of Retail Banking at CBG, stressed that the fair demonstrated the bank’s commitment to empowering SMEs.
He described the event as an embodiment of the bank’s role as a trusted partner in the success of small businesses.
Mr. Nikoi urtged Ghanaians to embrace the festive spirit by supporting local vendors, and thanked all participants and contributors for making the event a success.
GNA