Introduction

Learn to Export

Exporting is the outflow of goods and services from one country, and its sale to another. It is important for all countries, particularly developing countries, as it brings in vital foreign exchange needed for development and payment of goods and services. The greater the inflow of earnings, the better the balance of payment position and consequently the faster the rate of development.

Products that can be exported are classified as either Traditional or Non-Traditional.

Traditional exports are Cocoa beans, Timber, Minerals and Electricity. All other products are classified as Non-Traditional exports for ease of reference the products have been grouped as Agricultural, Processed and Semi-Processed and Handicrafts.

AGRICULTURAL

1.   Horticultural Products

2.   Vegetables

3.   Spices

4.   Nuts

5.   Rubber

6.   Oil Seeds

7.   Tubers

8.   Fish & Fish Products

PROCESSED/SEMI PROCESSED PRODUCTS
HANDICRAFTS
 
HOW TO EXPORT

The export trade begins once you decide to export and set about achieving it. Some exporters are themselves producers of the goods exported. Others do not produce, but buy the merchandise from producers for export. When you decide to export, you need to do the following:

Business Registration

Register your business at the Registrar Generals Department. Your business may be a limited liability, public limited liability, sole proprietorship, a partnership or co-operative. Open a bank account at a bank of your choice.

Export Registration
The GEPC registers exporters to enable us have a profile on the companies. Registration forms can be obtained from its head office or any of its zonal offices in Kumasi, Takoradi, Tamale, Bolgatanga and Ho. The registration and renewals attract a fee.

Create a link to the registration form:

 
SECURING AN EXPORT ORDER

A transaction of a secured order should contain the essential facts about the desired merchandise.

CHECK BACKGROUND OF BUYER

Exporters must check the background of the buyer or importer. GEPC could assist in checking on the background of the buyer.

 
EXPORT DOCUMENTATION

The exporter should obtain:

Ghana Export Form from:
1.   CEPS
2.   Commercial Banks
 
METHODS OF PAYMENT
1.   Letter of Undertaking
2.   60 Days Credit
3.   Bilateral Account
4.   External Accounts

 
FORMS OF PAYMENT
Cash
Cheque
Mail Transfer
Electronic Transfer

OTHER MODES OF PAYMENT
A confirmed irrevocable Letter of Credit:
Bills of Collection

 
TAXATION
All Non-Traditional exports are free from taxation and should be covered by the Ghana Export Form.

HOW TO SUCCEED IN EXPORT TRADE
Adequate knowledge of international business practices is essential. For more information contact GEPC.

REGISTERING AS AN EXPORTER
All exporters in Ghana are required to register with the Ghana Export Promotion Council.

To download registration forms refer to the following link:


 

 
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