The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has taken a decisive step toward deepening Asian investment ties, hosting a high-level industrial delegation from the Republic of Korea.
Led by Mr. Hon Gu Huan of the Korea Trade Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), the visit to the Tema Export Processing Zone (EPZ), served as a strategic follow-up to the high-profile Business Forum held earlier this week at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).
“The delegation was received by the Director of the Tema Administrative Office, Mr. Lawrence Osei Boateng, who positioned the Tema EPZ as the crown jewel of Ghana’s export-led industrialization strategy as they toured the flagship multipurpose, export-oriented industrial enclave under the Ghana Free Zones Scheme”
Ghana Free Zones Authority
As the Mahama administration seeks to diversify its foreign direct investment (FDI) portfolio, Korea’s interest in the multipurpose enclave signals a new chapter in the “Export Ghana,” agenda.
According to the GFZA, the core of the visit was a technical tour of two heavyweights within the enclave: 3F Ghana Oils & Fats and TF Commodities. These firms represent the pinnacle of Ghana’s value-addition strategy, moving the nation away from the export of raw beans and nuts toward processed, high-value industrial ingredients.
At 3F Ghana Oils & Fats, the Korean delegates observed the complex thermal and mechanical processes required to transform raw shea nuts into specialized oils and fats used globally in cosmetics and food.
Similarly, at TF Commodities, the focus was on the cocoa value chain. The delegation gained firsthand insight into how Ghana is reclaiming its position in the global market by processing its premium cocoa beans into liquor, butter, and powder for international confectionery giants.
“At both facilities, the visitors were taken through the various stages of the production processes and gained firsthand insight into the value addition activities taking place within the zone”
Ghana Free Zones Authority
The Free Zone Incentive Advantage
During the engagement, the management of both 3F Ghana and TF Commodities served as “ambassadors” for the Ghanaian business environment. They highlighted the competitive edge provided by the GFZA, specifically citing the tax holidays, duty-free imports of machinery, and the streamlined regulatory environment.
This testimony is critical as Korea evaluates Ghana as a regional hub for its African operations. With export markets already established across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, the enterprises demonstrated that the Tema EPZ is a proven launchpad for global trade.
The delegation noted that the stability of the industrial policy in 2026 has been a key factor in the sustained growth of these export-oriented firms.
“Management of both companies expressed satisfaction with their working relationship with the Authority and commended the GFZA and the Government of Ghana for their continued support in ensuring smooth business operations”
Ghana Free Zones Authority
By touring the physical infrastructure and witnessing the production lines in motion, the KOTRA team was able to verify the “readiness” of the Tema enclave for further high-tech and light manufacturing investments.
GFZA noted that the visit is expected to pave the way for increased Korean participation in Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy initiative. Mr. Hon Gu Huan expressed the Korean delegation’s appreciation for the transparency of the GFZA’s operations.
Mr. Lawrence Osei Boateng reaffirmed that the Authority is prepared to offer “white-glove” services to Korean firms looking to set up within the zone. The GFZA is currently expanding its IT infrastructure to further digitize the application and permit processes, reducing the lead time for new investors to break ground.
As Ghana continues to leverage its status as the host of the AfCFTA Secretariat, partnerships with industrial powerhouses like Korea are essential.
The Tema EPZ is no longer just a local industrial park; it is a continental gateway. By integrating Korean technology and capital with Ghanaian raw materials and labor, the GFZA is building a model for sustainable, export-led prosperity that benefits both nations.
