Shopping in Ghana: Your Ultimate 2024 Guide to Smart Purchases
Why Ghana’s Shopping Scene is Unique
From the vibrant chaos of Kumasi’s Kejetia Market to the sleek boutiques of Accra’s Airport City, Ghana offers a shopping experience blending tradition and modernity. This guide reveals where to find authentic crafts, bargain for textiles, and navigate import duties for foreign goods.
1. Ghanaian Textiles: Kente vs. Ankara
| Fabric Type | Price per Yard (GHS) | Best For | Top Shops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authentic Kente | ₵250–₵600 | Traditional ceremonies | Bonwire Kente Village (Ashanti) |
| Premium Ankara | ₵80–₵150 | Daily wear | Makola Market, Accra |
Bargaining Tip: Start at 40% of quoted price for textiles in open markets.
2. Electronics: Local vs Imported Prices
Smartphone Comparison (2024 Models)
| Model | Local Price (GHS) | Import Price (Duty Paid) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung A25 | ₵2,300 | ₵1,850 | ₵450 |
| Tecno Camon 20 | ₵1,200 | ₵1,100 | ₵100 |
Import Duty Breakdown: 20% customs + 12.5% VAT + 1% ECOWAS levy
3. Authentic Ghanaian Crafts: Where to Buy
| Item | Avg Price (GHS) | Best Markets | Quality Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashanti Stools | ₵400–₵1,200 | Centre for National Culture, Kumasi | Look for "Adinkra" symbols |
| Beaded Jewelry | ₵50–₵200 | Artists Alliance Gallery, Accra | Authentic glass vs plastic beads |
4. Grocery Shopping: Local vs Imported Goods
Price Comparison (Common Items)
| Product | Local (GHS) | Imported (GHS) | Best Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rice (5kg) | ₵85 (Akuafo) | ₵120 (Basmati) | Local |
| Cooking Oil (3L) | ₵110 (King’s) | ₵180 (Olivo) | Local |
5. Ghana’s Online Shopping Revolution
Top E-Commerce Platforms
| Platform | Delivery Fee (Accra) | Payment Options | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tonaton | ₵15–₵50 | Mobile Money | 4.3/5 |
| Jumia Ghana | ₵30–₵100 | Card/Momo | 4.0/5 |
Safety Tip: Always use escrow services for high-value online purchases.
6. Duty-Free Shopping Guide
Who Qualifies?
- Diplomats with valid ID
- Travelers (up to $500 duty-free allowance)
Airport Purchases: Kotoka’s duty-free offers 30% savings on liquor compared to Accra shops.
7. City-by-City Shopping Hotspots
| City | Best For | Must-Visit | Avg. Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accra | Luxury imports | Dubois Centre Art Gallery | 20% higher than regional |
| Tamale | Shea butter products | Tamale Central Market | ₵15–₵50 per 500g |
8. Ghana Shopping FAQs
Q: Can foreigners claim VAT refunds?
A: Not currently – VAT is built into all consumer prices.
Q: Best time for market deals?
A: Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) before crowds arrive.
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