Government to reintroduce Advertising Bill to regulate industry – Deputy Trade Minister
The government is set to reintroduce the Advertising Bill to Parliament in a renewed effort to regulate the advertising sector and promote ethical practices, consumer protection, and industry standardisation.
This announcement was made by the Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, during the 2025 Gong Gong Festival of Creativity & Awards in Accra on Saturday, June 28.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Mr Ahi said the bill aims to provide a modern legal framework that will sanitise operations within the advertising landscape.
“The bill, once passed, will ensure standardisation, uphold ethical values, and improve professionalism in the industry,” Mr Ahi noted, while applauding the Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) for championing innovation and growth in the sector.
The Deputy Minister described the advertising industry as a key economic driver, contributing over GHS 2.5 billion annually to Ghana’s GDP. He underscored its importance in supporting a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, health, fintech, fashion, and manufacturing.
“The advertising industry is not only a driver of consumer demand and brand development; it is also a source of livelihood for tens of thousands of young Ghanaians,” Mr Ahi stated. “In a time when youth unemployment is a pressing challenge, advertising offers pathways to innovation, skills development, and entrepreneurship.”
The 2025 Gong Gong Festival, held under the theme “Disrupt & Inspire: Recognising Brands and Agencies That Challenge Norms and Redefine Creativity,” brought together a broad cross-section of industry professionals, creatives, and stakeholders to honour excellence and transformative work in advertising.
Mr Ahi reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the creative economy, adding that advertising should be regarded as strategically important as manufacturing and commerce.
He called on industry leaders to continue challenging the status quo and adapting to rapid technological changes. “In a world shaped by AI and digital transformation, Ghana’s advertising sector must keep pushing boundaries and telling compelling stories that uplift both our people and economy,” he said.
The event also featured awards recognising the most impactful brands and agencies that have shaped the national and regional advertising narrative over the past year.
