President John Mahama Signs New Ghana Investment Promotion Authority Act to Modernize National Investment Landscape

In a landmark move to strengthen the nation’s economic framework, President John Dramani Mahama has officially signed the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority Act, 2026 (Act 1173) into law. This legislative overhaul transforms the former Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) into the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA), significantly expanding its mandate to promote, facilitate, and monitor both local and international investments. The new Act replaces the previous 2013 legislation (Act 865) and is designed to enhance Ghana’s status as a premier investment destination in Africa by streamlining administrative procedures and providing robust legal protections for investors.

The GIPA Act introduces several critical reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business and aligning Ghana’s investment climate with global standards, particularly the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) protocols. Key provisions include the elimination of blanket minimum capital requirements for foreign-owned enterprises and the establishment of a statutory Investor Grievance Mechanism to resolve disputes efficiently. Furthermore, the legislation creates a "One-Stop-Shop" for investment processes, intended to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and foster a more transparent, competitive environment for sustainable economic growth.

Complementing these legislative advancements, the government is also intensifying efforts to formalize the domestic economy through executive engagement. Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang recently met with the management of the Registrar of Companies (ORC), led by Registrar Maame Samma Peprah, to discuss strategies for expanding company registration and supporting the informal sector. During the meeting, the Vice-President praised the ORC’s initiatives to improve proximity to registration services and urged the institution to prioritize public communication and innovation. This dual approach of high-level legislative reform and grassroots business formalization highlights the administration’s strategy to build a more inclusive and resilient economy.

The transition to the new GIPA framework marks a significant shift in how Ghana interacts with the global market, positioning the country as a strategic gateway to West Africa. As the Authority begins its expanded operations, existing GIPC-registered enterprises are being encouraged to comply with the new statutory requirements to ensure a smooth transition. These collective measures are expected to bolster investor confidence, stimulate local enterprise participation, and ultimately accelerate job creation. By modernizing its investment laws and simplifying business entry points, Ghana aims to secure its position as a leading competitive player in the regional and international investment landscape.