Government is expecting to conclude talks with Japanese car maker Nissan to establish an assembling plant in Ghana.
Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, disclosed at the Ghana Industrial Summit and Exhibition organized by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI).
According to Mr. Kyerematen, the country’s announcement of its zeal to play a significant role in the automotive industry has attracted several offers from players in the industry across the world.
“Major companies basically more or less putting more pressure on us to get started… Nissan is far advanced in terms of discussions,” the trade minister stated.
He added: “These are all opportunities for the private sector to engage with potential investors. And it is our hope that you find partners to grow your sector.”
The announcement of Nissan planning to establish base in Ghana comes on the back of VW and Sinotruk. Late August, German Chancellor Angela Merkel revealed that the German car maker is set to establish an assembling plant in Ghana.
Addressing a joint press conference with President Akufo-Addo, at the foyer of the Jubilee House, Chancellor Angela Merkel, said her administration has watched keenly the decision of the Akufo-Addo administration to propel Ghana beyond aid. She said her country is poised to collaborate with Ghana to make available to Ghana, the best practices that has helped Germany to industrialize.
She said the assembling will also create a considerable number of jobs for Ghanaians in the car manufacturing sector. Contributing to the development, President Akufo-Addo said the Ghanaian economy is delighted to welcome the VW vehicle plant into the country. He pledged that Government will give the investor community of Germany every necessary assist that they would require.
Meanwhile, Sinotruk International, China’s first heavy-duty truck manufacturer, has signed an agreement with the Government of Ghana to establish an assembly plant in Ghana, to serve both Ghanaian and West African markets.
The assembly plant in Ghana, when established, will, initially, have the capacity to assemble some 1,500 trucks per year for sale in Ghana and West Africa.
Source: Ghana/Starrfmonline.com/103.5FM/Osei Owusu Amankwaah
