Discusses the distribution network within the country from how products enter to final destination, including reliability and condition of distribution mechanisms, major distribution centers, ports, etc.
Last Published: 12/3/2018

The distribution channels available for U.S. suppliers of goods and services include wholesalers, retail outlets, and agents or distributors.

When talking to potential distributors/sellers in Ghana, an important issue to consider is potential changes in product shelf life given the warm and humid environment in the country.
 
Major cities in Ghana for U.S. goods and services roughly correlate with population size:

  • Accra/Tema Metropolitan area (3.8 million people)
  • Kumasi (1.3 million)
  • Takoradi (500,000)
  • Shama-Ahanta East Metropolis (400,000)
  • Tamale (320,000)
  • Sunyani (195,000) and
  • Cape Coast (170,000).

 Goods primarily enter Ghana via sea or air (including air freight, courier services, air parcel post and express). Because deliveries can sometimes be delayed, it is important to allow some extra time when preparing delivery timetables. Also, it is advisable to ensure that required documentation is in order prior to transit – as incorrect or incomplete documents can also add extra time to delivery schedules. A freight forwarder is often recommended to increase the chances of a smooth transit of goods.

Currently, virtually all goods enter Ghana through either one of two main sea ports (Tema or Takoradi) or via Kotoka International Airport. Problems have been reported with expeditious clearing of goods through the ports with some reports of solicitations for bribes from port and customs officials.

Note: Imported or locally manufactured goods can be stored under customs control in a government or private bonded warehouse without payment of import duty or other taxes to allow deferment of tax liabilities until the goods are needed for consumption or are exported.

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.