Organisers of Propak Ghana have re-iterated the organization’s commitment to increased output in made-in-Ghana products to boost the nation’s exports in the region and beyond.

According to the Managing Director of Montgomery Group, Alexander Angus, Propak Ghana, which is an industry-leading event for the packaging, plastics, processing, and print industries will provide massive support for the attainment of the nation’s agenda of an increase in the manufacture and export of made in Ghana products.

“Our objective is to establish Propak as a key support platform for Ghana’s aspirations to increase the output of ‘the made in Ghana brand’ and boost its exports in the region and beyond.

"Undoubtedly, Propak is an opportunity for Ghana to become the leading supplier to West Africa for consumer packaging, pioneering the way to supplying quality, sustainable packaging to the region's manufacturers.”

Addressing attendees at the opening ceremony of the 3-day Propak Ghana event, the Managing Director underscored the pivotal role international exhibitions such as Propak Ghana play in realising Ghana’s vision of achieving a true value-added and export-oriented economy.

He called for substantial investment in strategic areas to achieve this goal.

“Propak Ghana’s support for increased output and export of made in Ghana goods can ensure Ghana’s plan at transforming its economy from one heavily reliant on natural resources, to a true value-added exports-led economy.

"Nonetheless, the quest for a value-added export economy cannot be a reality without investment in manufacturing, increasing the use of state-of-the-art equipment and machinery, as well as human capital, since these are key ingredients in ensuring greater efficiency and effectiveness in manufacturing,” he said.

Taking his turn, the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Mr. Seth Twum Akwaboah, admonished businesses to adopt the right packaging materials to remain competitive both locally and internationally.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is one of the avenues that offers businesses in Ghana the opportunity to expand their markets beyond borders.  With this, doors are open to facilitate trade between Ghana and many African countries.

"However, to remain competitive in such a space the quality of one’s product in addition to the right packaging space is crucial. Thus, as businesses, we have no choice but to adapt the appropriate packaging so we can have the best to showcase our products and be competitive,” he said.

On her part, the CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Osafohene Dr Afua Asabea Asare I highlighted the importance of attractive and quality packaging in the quest to attract customers while standing out in an overcrowded market.

“There is a positive relationship between the quality of packaging and consumer purchasing behaviour. This is to say that quality and attractive packaging adds value and quality to a product, aiding consumers’ decision-making processes.

"It is a known fact that poorly packaged products deter consumers from purchasing goods regardless of their quality,” she said.

She mentioned that strong branding which includes the packaging of products is necessary for building reputation and winning the trust of consumers.

“Indeed, strong branding is the cornerstone upon which businesses build their identity and reputation. A strong brand not only differentiates a product in the market but also builds trust and loyalty among consumers.”

Dr. Asare admonished players in the industry to continue to adhere to high standards of production saying “Quality control also stands as a non-negotiable pillar of success in the manufacturing industry. It is the bedrock upon which consumer trust is built and sustained.

"Through rigorous quality assurance measures, we safeguard the integrity of our products and uphold the reputation of our brands.”

Running parallel to the Propak Ghana exhibition are high-level conference programs that will provide insight, knowledge, and thought leadership on the trends and relevant topics faced by the industry today.

The conference featuring over 40 speakers will delve in and out of thematic areas of the circular economy, sustainability, and the latest trends in print and packaging technology, among others.

As part of the exhibition, it is expected that visitors will be able to explore the latest innovations and products from leading suppliers from the region, in addition to the inventions of a host of international brands that are uniquely tailored towards the support of the local manufacturing industry.

Expected to facilitate the convergence of about 2,500 industry professionals and over 100 brands from around the world, Propak Ghana which, promises to be a game changer in the plastics, manufacturing, and packaging industry is supported by the Mohinani Group as the headline sponsor alongside Jay Kay Group and Tetra Pak.

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), KPMG Ghana, and the Africa Trade Academy are partners.