By Joseph W. Quarm
The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) has held an orientation session for 30 newly licensed Free Zones accredited Enterprises to deepen their understanding of the Free Zones Scheme and reinforce the importance of regulatory compliance.
The orientation, organised by the Authority’s Compliance Department, forms part of it’s ongoing efforts to equip newly licensed enterprises with the knowledge and support required to operate successfully under the Scheme.
The session provided participants with insights into the operational framework of the Free Zones Programme, key regulatory obligations and the range of support services available to investors.
In her opening remarks Chief Executive Officer of the Free Zones Authority, Dr Mary Awusi congratulated the newly licensed companies on joining the Free Zones community and encouraged them to uphold the rules, standards and best practices that govern the Scheme.
She also reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to creating and sustaining a business-friendly environment that supports investment growth and operational efficiency.
Dr Awusi further assured participants of Management’s open-door policy and readiness to engage with enterprises in addressing operational concerns and challenges that may arise in the course of their activities.
Officials from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority also took participants through customs procedures under the Free Zones Scheme, including documentation requirements, compliance obligations, import and export processes, cargo handling procedures and trade facilitation measures.
Their presentation provided useful clarity on operational expectations within the Scheme.
Representatives from several departments of the Authority, including Monitoring, Immigration, Transport, Registry, Management Information Systems (MIS), Marketing, Corporate Affairs, Credit Control and AfCFTA, also delivered presentations outlining their respective roles in supporting Free Zones Enterprises and ensuring a smooth and well-regulated operational environment.
The orientation session provided an interactive platform for participants to engage directly with officials, ask questions and gain a deeper appreciation of the opportunities and responsibilities associated with operating under the Free Zones Scheme.