The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has called on the government to present a business-friendly 2026 budget that prioritises industrial recovery, stabilises the economy, and rebuilds confidence among local manufacturers.
In a statement, FABAG Executive Chairman John Awuni said the food and beverage industry is facing “mounting challenges” that are eroding investments and threatening jobs. He stressed that reducing nuisance taxes and ensuring macroeconomic stability are vital for competitiveness and long-term growth.
Seven Key Expectations from the 2026 Budget
- Reduction in Nuisance Taxes: FABAG urged the government to review multiple levies, including the COVID-19 levy, excise duties, environmental excise tax, and container fumigation fees. The group also called for targeted tax reliefs for local producers and SMEs.
- Foreign Exchange and Inflation Management: The Association said stabilising the cedi and curbing inflation are essential for predictable production costs and investor confidence.
- Support for Local Manufacturing: FABAG recommended incentives such as affordable credit and lower energy costs to boost productivity, value addition, and exports.
- Halt on New Taxes: The group warned against introducing new levies in 2026, arguing that businesses are already overburdened.
- Streamlined Regulation: FABAG called for better coordination among regulatory agencies like the GRA, FDA, and GSA to reduce bureaucracy and cost overlaps.
- Sustainability Incentives: The Association proposed tax rebates for companies adopting eco-friendly packaging and production methods.
- Investment and Job Creation: FABAG urged policies to attract investment in agro-processing and manufacturing to create jobs.
FABAG concluded that a growth-oriented 2026 budget will strengthen production capacity and position Ghana as a manufacturing hub in West Africa.
