Globalization of the Fashion Industry and Its Effects on Ghanaian Independent Fashion Designers

Abstract

This paper investigates the globalization of the fashion industry and its effects on Ghanaian in- dependent fashion designers and finds feasible strategies that can be employed for the improve- ment of the fashion business in Ghana. The research is based on qualitative research approach which employs observation and interview for data collection. The population studied comprises fashion producers who have their workshops within twelve suburbs in Kumasi. The purposive sampling technique was utilized to select six respondents from each of the suburbs. Data col- lected was tabulated, interpreted and discussed. The study reveals among other things, that the Ghanaian fashion producers face serious challenges with the major one being importation of “seconds” and used clothes from Europe, America and cheap clothing and textiles from Asian countries. Lack of capital, knowledge and key skills, low and irregular income are among other challenges facing respondents. Strategies suggested for the improvement of the Ghanaian fash- ion business include; formation of strong alliance by all fashion producers in Ghana to influ- ence the government to formulate policies that will address importation of fashion goods that compete unfairly with the Ghanaian fashion products, provide financial assistance in the form of loans to help in acquisition of current and more efficient machinery and raw material to im- prove and expand their businesses, and organise regular proficiency training for skills and com- petency upgrading to equip them to produce to meet international standards.