GSS Calls for Policies to Retain Ghanaians’ Travel Spending Locally

Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu- Photo credit GSS

Accra, Ghana — The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has urged government to introduce targeted policies aimed at keeping more of Ghanaians’ travel-related expenditure within the local economy.

According to the 2023 Domestic and Outbound Tourism Survey (DOTS), Ghanaians spent an estimated GHS 4 billion abroad in 2023, comprising GHS 3.4 billion by overnight travelers and GHS 59.8 million by same-day visitors.

The GSS described this as a significant economic leakage, noting that much of that spending could have benefited local businesses if reinvested in Ghana’s tourism and service sectors.

In its statement, the GSS called for strategic investments in transportation, airport facilities, and hospitality infrastructure to make domestic tourism more attractive and competitive.

It further recommended that government offer tax incentives and grants to tour operators who prioritize local destinations and use Ghana-made goods and services in their packages. “The goal is to ensure that more of the value generated through outbound travel benefits Ghana’s economy,” the Governor of the Ghana Statistical Service Dr Alhassan Iddrisu stated.

The GSS also urged stronger partnerships between airlines, hotels, and private operators, advocating for the creation of comprehensive domestic travel packages that can rival international options and promote local souvenirs and crafts abroad.

The call comes as Ghana continues to expand its tourism footprint through initiatives such as the Beyond the Return campaign, which encourages diaspora engagement and domestic exploration.
Analysts say implementing GSS’s recommendations could help Ghana retain billions in annual travel revenue, strengthen small businesses, and boost employment within the tourism value chain.

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