GIHOC debunks reports it has abandoned Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy
GIHOC Distilleries Ghana Limited has refuted reports suggesting it had “abandoned” the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy due to a decrease in demand for its products, following an engagement with Parliament’s Labour and Employment Committee.
In a statement sighted by GhanaWeb Business, management stated that none of its members, including Chief Executive Officer Jones Borteye Applerh, made such statements during the engagement, held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
The company urged the public to disregard publications suggesting it had asked the government to stop the importation of alcohol.
“We wish to unequivocally state for the record that the said publication grossly misrepresented the discussions that took place, and also presented a narrative that neither reflects the intent, context, nor content of what was actually said at the meeting.
“For clarity and the benefit of the public, we wish to state as follows: No statement was made in the manner reported. Management only addressed specific questions about the company’s present state of operations and discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen operations and improve efficiency. At no point did the Acting Chief Executive Officer or any member of management suggest or imply that ‘GIHOC Abandons 24-Hour Economy Initiative Over Low Demand’ or that GIHOC had ‘urged Government to clamp down on alcohol imports’.”
GIHOC launches reset agenda to tackle GH¢427 million debt
The statement added, “Any publication that says that is false, completely out of context, misleading, and deceptive.”
GIHOC management further reiterated its support for President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-hour economy initiative.
“GIHOC continues to support and align fully with the President’s 24-Hour Economy initiative. The company is actively pursuing measures to enhance production capacity, boost competitiveness, and make meaningful contributions toward the realization of this national policy objective.
“GIHOC recognises the importance of a healthy and fair market environment. The company welcomes competition and variety within the beverage industry and is committed to improving its operations to recapture market share and restore its leadership position, not by exclusion, but through innovation, efficiency, and quality.”
Read the full statement below:
BAI/MA
Watch as Ghanaians share bold ideas to end galamsey
