The Ghanaian Times congratulates the Ghana Standards Authority on unveiling the first hallmark gold in Ghana. However, it finds it unfortunate that the joy has been short-lived by the controversy over the mandate of the Authority to assess, value and certify refined gold for the international Bullion market. Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), Dr. Kwadjo Opare-Hammond is on record to have said the Authority lacks the mandate in the minerals sector and this has been made very clear to them on several occasions. The paper adds that the controversy is needless and calls on the two institutions to get their act together in the interest of the Country. It says while this issue is being resolved, government should institute policy measures aimed at adding value to raw materials so that Ghana can derive associated benefits.
Following the rise in unemployment in Ghana the Daily Graphic looks at how the Free Zones Authority has been empowered under the Free Zones Act of 1995 (Act 504) to divide the country into export processing zones, either as enclaves or single-factory enterprise schemes. The paper applauds international investors who have set up multi-million dollar factories to help expand the economy and create jobs. The Graphic commends Niche Cocoa Industry, a local cocoa processor which has taken advantage of the programme to expand its services. The paper therefore joins in calls by experts for a review of free zones concept to help maximise the gains.
