Accra (Greater Accra), 9th June 99 ?

Dr John Abu, Minister of Trade and Industry, on Tuesday called for a change in attitude towards locally produced goods if Ghana is to benefit from the new world trade order.

"It is only through this that we can translate our activities into increases in economic growth and productivity at the national level and ensure that we get our fair share of the gains from international trade."

Dr Abu said this at the opening of a four-day seminar for 30 regional officers, directors and personnel from the country's entry points.

The seminar is aimed at strengthening the participants' management skills and capacity in promoting Ghana's Gateway concept which is aimed at making Ghana the gateway to the West Africa as far as trade and investment are concerned

Dr Abu said the issue of globalisation of the world's economy, the new framework for conducting international trade as specified by the World Trade Organisation, as well as Ghana's Vision 2020 create great challenges for a shift in attitude.

"We must move from a situation where we are satisfied with static trade and industry policies and strategies to a position where we are continually examining our policies, strategies and our ways of doing things..."

Dr Abu said at least, a change in attitude will correct the trade imbalance of Ghana which relies heavily on imported goods.

"The emphasis is now on export-oriented economy which demands a strong industrial base.

"We therefore have to support our local industries. And this can be done through a change in attitude towards locally produced goods," Dr Abu said.