Local Gin (Akpeteshie) producers at Jato in the Suhum Municipality of the Eastern Region are worried and fears fold up of business following an increase in the prices of sugar. A bag of sugar which was sold at GH¢140 is now sold at GH¢200
According Charles Goddey, Chairman of the producers, the rate at which the cost of sugar and other necessities used in producing the gin are escalating is gradually collapsing the business. He therefore made a passionate appeal to the government to come into their aid with immediate effect to avert possible collapse of their business.
Mr. Goddey mention to the B&FT in an interview that the situation currently may either force them to fold out, increase the prices of the gin or lay off workers because they cannot generate enough profit to pay their workers. Government is further urged to fulfill its campaign promise to establish a local gin factory and a warehouse under the One District, One Factory (1D1F).
Mr. Goddey also praised President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo’s intention to export the local product onto the international market. This, according to him, will create employment and also boost the economy. He is hopeful the local gin can compete with other foreign gin on the international market to support the economy.
Some of the workers also told the B&FT about the inability of their bosses to pay their salaries for the past three months and are pleading with government to do something on the sugar prices in order for them to secure their business and jobs to sustain their livelihoods.
