TCDA pledges government support to boost rubber processing in Western Region

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting rubber processing companies and tackling raw material shortages to boost the sector’s growth.

As part of a stakeholder engagement tour in the Western Region, the TCDA visited Narubiz Natural Rubber Processing Company, an indigenous rubber processing factory in the Wasa Amenfi East District. The visit was aimed at assessing challenges within the tree crops sector and exploring ways to enhance productivity.

During the tour, TCDA Chief Executive Officer, Andy Osei Okrah, commended Narubiz Limited for its efforts in rubber processing and assured the company of government support. He stressed the government's commitment to improving the productivity of local processors and addressing the persistent challenge of raw material shortages.

“The government is committed to enhancing the productivity of local processing companies like Narubiz. We understand the challenges posed by the inadequate supply of raw materials, and we are here to assure you that steps will be taken to address this issue. Our goal is to enhance the company’s working capacity and, more importantly, create more job opportunities for the youth within this community,” he stated.

During the visit, Narubiz Limited’s Managing Director, Emmanuel Akwasi Owusu, highlighted the factory’s current production capacity and challenges.

“Currently, the factory operates twenty-five days a month, producing a maximum of 600 tons of rubber monthly. However, the lack of adequate raw materials remains a significant challenge that hinders us from achieving higher output,” he noted.

He appealed for government intervention to ensure a steady supply of raw materials, which would enable the company to scale up operations and contribute significantly to Ghana’s economy.

The Western Regional tour is part of TCDA’s broader strategy to engage key stakeholders and promote the development of major cash crops, including rubber, coconut, and palm oil. The Authority had previously held successful engagements in the cashew and shea butter industries.

As part of the visit, the TCDA delegation first met with the Directorate of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) at the Western Regional Coordinating Council. The team later toured Narubiz Natural Rubber Processing Company, where they observed the factory’s operations and export processes.

The TCDA’s pledge of support has renewed hope within the rubber industry, with stakeholders optimistic about increased government collaboration to expand production. If implemented effectively, these interventions could lead to job creation, industry growth, and an increase in Ghana’s export revenue.