The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has paid a working visit to the Ekumfi Juice Factory as part of the government's effort to strengthen agro-processing and accelerate industrial growth under the 24-Hour Economy policy.

The visit, which took place on Friday, December 19, was aimed at assessing the factory’s operations and exploring ways it can leverage government’s industrialisation agenda to boost production, create jobs and add value to locally produced fruits.

Addressing the media during the tour, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting local agro-processing companies, describing them as critical to reducing post-harvest losses, improving farmers’ incomes and driving sustainable economic growth.

She noted that the 24-Hour Economy initiative presents significant opportunities for factories such as Ekumfi Juice to scale up production, operate more efficiently and meet both domestic and export market demand, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Operations Manager of the Ekumfi Juice Factory, Mr Frederick Kobbyna Acquaah, briefed the Minister on the company’s production processes, capacity and operational challenges.

He highlighted key issues including access to finance, reliable power supply and consistent sourcing of raw materials, while expressing optimism about the factory’s growth prospects with sustained government support.

Mr Acquaah also commended government for prioritising agribusiness and local manufacturing, noting that targeted policy interventions would enable the company to expand operations, create employment opportunities for the youth and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

As part of the visit, the Minister and members of the press toured the factory’s farms, where fruits such as oranges, guava and passion fruit are cultivated in large quantities to support juice production.

Management of the company also disclosed plans to establish a new fruit juice processing plant in the Central Region in 2026 to further expand its operations.

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare assured the company of the Ministry’s readiness to work with relevant agencies to address its challenges and create an enabling environment for agro-industrial firms to thrive.

The visit forms part of the Ministry’s broader engagement with local industries aimed at promoting inclusive industrial development and ensuring the successful implementation of government’s economic transformation agenda.