The World Sustainability Organization (WSO) introduced its Sustainable Cosmetics Certification in Ghana to help cosmetic manufacturers improve access to international markets and meet growing global demand for sustainably produced beauty and personal care products.
The certification, launched through a partnership with business development firm Fort Group Ghana, is expected to support manufacturers, skincare brands and personal care producers in adopting internationally recognised sustainability standards while strengthening the competitiveness of Ghana's cosmetics industry.
Founder and Director of the World Sustainability Organization, Paolo Bray, said the certification would provide businesses with an internationally recognised framework to demonstrate responsible production while expanding opportunities in export markets.
Growing market
The initiative came as Ghana's beauty and personal care industry continued to expand, with retail value sales rising by 11 per cent to GH¢3.56 billion annually. Ghana has also increased its share of the global shea export market to 5.1 per cent as more raw materials are processed locally.
The certification focuses on responsible sourcing of natural ingredients, environmentally sustainable production, ethical supply chains, sustainable packaging and the protection of biodiversity and local communities.
It also provides independent verification of sustainability practices, helping businesses strengthen consumer confidence, improve brand reputation and meet the expectations of buyers in export markets.
"The certification gives Ghanaian cosmetic manufacturers an opportunity to demonstrate that their products meet internationally recognised sustainability standards. It also helps businesses strengthen their position in export markets where buyers increasingly expect verified environmental and social practices,” he said.
Export opportunity
According to market data, Ghana's organic and natural beauty segment recorded annual growth of more than nine per cent, driven by increasing consumer demand for products that are safe, ethically sourced and environmentally responsible.
Regional supply chain data tracked by the West Africa Competitiveness Programme also showed that 26.6 per cent of consumers considered natural and organic ingredients as the main factor influencing their purchase of personal care products.
"Ghana has a strong foundation through its shea industry and growing local manufacturing capacity. This certification helps businesses build credibility with international buyers while encouraging responsible production that benefits both communities and the environment,” Bray said.