The Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called on the government to invest in the Ghanaian herbal medicine industry.

Ashanti Regional Chairman, Stephen Achempong, wants funding extended to the sector to improve research of herbal and traditional medicines.

He was speaking at the launch of the maiden Herbal Fair in the Ashanti Region.

The two-day fair, dubbed "Exploring Healthcare through the Healing Power of Nature" will attract herbal medicine practitioners and producers in the Ashanti region.

It will be organised annually to increase access to certified local herbal medicines.

The Regional Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Stephen Acheampong, believes, "the sector, when improved, will drive export of herbal products to enhance the country's foreign exchange and spur rapid socio-economic growth and development."

Mr. Acheampong pleaded, "with the government to provide a trade centre that will help the Chamber promote businesses in the region. It will also create jobs and increase revenue for development."

Ashanti Regional Head of the Food and Drugs Authority, John Laryea Odai Tettey, assured "manufacturers the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) is readily available to offer technical support to increase the export potentials of herbal products."

He advised herbal producers to uphold professional and ethical standards.

Some herbal producers spoke to LuvNews.

"We want the FDA to make processes flexible, so other manufacturers can join the herbal sector," Anette, a herbal manufacturer said.

The KCCI/Angel Herbal Fair 2023 was supported by Adusah Herbal Mixture, Medimafo Herbal Clinic, Imboost Herbal Mixture, Sharp Herbal Company Limited, and the Amegashie Spiritual & Herbal Center.