Ghana’s garment sector is currently valued at around US$400 million, with the government aiming to grow it to over US$2 billion and create 150,000 jobs by 2033, alongside expanding cotton production across 50,000 hectares. Despite this potential, more than 70 percent of textiles and garments consumed in the country are imported annually, limiting the sector’s impact on local employment, incomes, and value addition.
In response, the Association of Ghana Apparel Manufacturers (AGAM) is intensifying efforts to influence public policy and promote greater government procurement of locally produced garments. AGAM is engaging key ministries responsible for policy formulation and large-scale procurement of uniforms and apparel for public institutions, aiming to ensure that local manufacturers benefit from sector growth.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is supporting AGAM with technical assistance to enhance advocacy capacity and effectiveness. With ILO support, AGAM has established an Advocacy Implementation Committee to plan and execute the campaign, developed a Position Paper outlining sector challenges and policy solutions, and participated in a capacity-building program on effective advocacy strategies held in Accra in October 2025.
Drawing on insights from a study tour to the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS), ILO representatives highlighted how structured membership, government engagement, and strengthened domestic value chains can create a competitive and resilient textile and garment industry. This support is helping AGAM strengthen its organizational structures, operations, and credibility, positioning it as an influential voice in shaping policies and programs that drive Ghana’s garment industry and broader economic development.
