Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy initiative, announced under the 2026 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review, requires strong infrastructure, private-sector leadership, and effective implementation to deliver its promised benefits. Professor Anthony Amoah, an Applied Economist at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya, stated that the program’s success hinges on these foundational elements.
The initiative aims to boost productivity, create jobs, and expand exports. Professor Amoah urged the government to strengthen institutional, infrastructural, and policy foundations. This will ensure the success of the country’s flagship 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme.
This strategy represents one of Ghana’s boldest economic transformation efforts in decades. Its success depends on effective implementation rather than merely extending working hours. A well-implemented 24-hour economy can increase productivity, create decent jobs, expand exports, improve industrial competitiveness, and accelerate economic growth.
Experiences from countries like China, Vietnam, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates show that continuous production systems thrive with reliable infrastructure, efficient logistics, and strong export markets. Professor Amoah stressed that the real strength of a 24-hour economy lies in maximizing the use of capital, infrastructure, and labour. This ensures goods reach both domestic and international markets efficiently.
The 24-Hour Economy Authority Act, 2026 (Act 1164), has established the legal framework for implementation. The government has reported that 268 fuel stations, 11 bulk oil depots, two oil refineries, 33 manufacturing firms, and 12 public institutions have already adopted multi-shift operations. Additionally, the government announced a pipeline of more than US$11.5 billion in prospective investments. US$5.5 billion has been secured through Joint Development Agreements to support industrialisation and exports.
Professor Amoah described these developments as encouraging. They suggest the programme is moving beyond political commitments towards institutional implementation. However, he cautioned that a successful 24-hour economy needs an enabling ecosystem. This includes reliable electricity, efficient transport systems, seamless logistics, accessible financing, adequate security, clear labour regulations, and sustained demand.
Despite improvements in Ghana’s macroeconomic environment, fiscal space remains constrained. The government continues its fiscal consolidation programme, limiting resources for critical infrastructure investments. Professor Amoah also expressed concern over Ghana’s narrow export base. Although the country recorded a strong trade surplus in 2025 and the first half of 2026, performance remains heavily dependent on gold exports.
He called for greater investment in manufacturing, agro-processing, and value-added industries. This would diversify exports and reduce dependence on primary commodities. Many small and medium-sized enterprises face high production costs, expensive credit, limited access to long-term finance, and infrastructure challenges. Introducing additional production shifts without addressing these constraints could lead to increased operating costs exceeding productivity gains.
Labour market preparedness is equally important. Multi-shift operations require skilled workers, effective occupational safety standards, reliable nighttime transport, and fair compensation for employees. Professor Amoah welcomed the integration of the Accelerated Export Development Programme with the 24-Hour Economy. He described this as strategically important because increased production must be matched by expanded export opportunities.
He recommended that the export strategy prioritize agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles and garments, automotive components, digital services, and processed minerals. These products have strong regional and international demand, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area. The 24-Hour Economy should be primarily an industrial development strategy, not solely an employment programme. The government could adopt a pilot approach before nationwide implementation. Introducing the initiative in export-oriented industrial enclaves like Tema, Takoradi, Kumasi, and selected agro-processing corridors would allow policymakers to assess its impact before expanding.
Moving forward, Professor Amoah urged the government to allow the private sector to lead implementation. The government should focus on enabling infrastructure, affordable financing, stronger labour protections, and continuous performance monitoring. The long-term success of the initiative will be measured by its ability to improve productivity, create quality jobs, expand exports, and attract investment.