Ghana’s local footwear making sector is on the brink of collapse. The Ghana Leather and Footwear Manufacturers Association (GLFMA) claims cheap imported shoes are overwhelming the market. This situation threatens thousands of jobs and Ghana's ability to produce its own goods. The association is urging the government for immediate help.
The GLFMA, representing over 25,000 artisans and factory owners, says unfair import practices are the main problem. Gilbert Akwasi Ntim, the National President, stated this at a recent protest in Kumasi. He explained that Chinese importers are bringing in footwear at very low prices. Local businesses cannot compete with these low costs. This imbalance means Ghanaian-made shoes are losing market share. The industry used to employ many people, especially young vocational graduates. Now, those jobs are disappearing rapidly.
This issue is more than just a business problem; it's an economic concern for Ghana. From 2024 to 2025, over 70 percent of footwear sold in Ghana came from China. The import value for these shoes exceeded $30 million USD. In contrast, Ghana's own footwear exports remained below $1 million USD. This massive trade gap drains the nation's foreign exchange. It means Ghana is importing poverty while sending money overseas. The GLFMA reports that local producers here have lost over 30 percent of their market share in the last decade. Many small and medium-sized businesses have already closed down.
Mr. Ntim stated, "A nation that cannot foot its people is a nation who walks into a future with a barefoot." He added, "We ship millions of dollars to China and we import poverty back home." The association is determined to keep raising these concerns. They believe a strong local manufacturing base is crucial for national economic growth and self-reliance. The current situation directly impacts the livelihoods of many Ghanaians.
The GLFMA is calling for a review of port duties and protective measures. They want policies that favour local production. This could include higher tariffs on imported footwear or stricter import regulations. The government’s response will be critical for the survival of this industry. Investors and markets will watch to see if Ghana can support its domestic manufacturing. The future of thousands of jobs hangs in the balance. The association also hopes to boost exports of Ghanaian footwear in the future.