Access to and use of export market information by non-traditional commodity exporters in Ghana

Abstract

Ghana has traditionally depended on a number of export commodities such as cocoa, timber, gold and diamonds for its economic and social development. Recent economic policies of government have aimed to expand the country's exports to include non-traditional exports such as horticultural products, textiles, fishery products, wood products and handicrafts. Growth in exports depends on both domestic factors, such as the quality, quantity and cost of production of the commodities, as well as conditions in the export markets. It was in that context that this paper analysed the nature of access to and use of export market information b y non-traditional commodity exporters in Ghana. A mail questionnaire was used to collect organisational-level perception and activity information concerning export market information from forty non-traditional commodity exporting firms in Ghana. The study found that 32 (87%) of the firms sought information from diverse sources concerning foreign markets, although the information was mostly obtained from institutions and organisations. The types of market information sought included prices of product; consumer tastes and preferences; export logistics and facilities; political issues; and customs procedures. The study recommended specific roles in the dissemination and provision of access to export information for the Ghana Export Promotion Council, and for public, community and academic libraries and trade associations in Ghana.