Birim Oil Mills pumps $18M into palm oil expansion to meet West Africa's demand
Birim Oil Mills has invested over US$18 million in expanding its oil palm plantations across 2,750 acres. The company now seeks further investment to boost production and meet rising demand for vegetable oils in Ghana and West Africa. Industry leaders view this as a critical step for the region's agricultural growth.
The firm's current operations include a mill capable of processing 30 tonnes of palm fruit per hour. Its output supplies major refineries in Ghana and neighboring ECOWAS countries. With demand for vegetable oils climbing, Birim Oil Mills aims to scale up production capacity.
Simon Madjie, CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), has urged strategic investors to back the company's expansion. He highlighted the oil palm sector as a cornerstone of Ghana's push to industrialize tree crops. At a recent industry event, Madjie stressed that today's investments will shape the future of Ghana's agricultural economy.
He also called for broader collaboration, inviting businesses to work with GIPC in building a sustainable and competitive tree crops sector. Expanding local processing, he noted, would cut reliance on imported oils while creating jobs and adding value within Ghana.
The move follows a wider trend in West Africa, where major firms like Wilmar International, Olam International, and several Chinese companies have ramped up palm oil production since 2020. These investments have largely focused on processing plants in Ghana, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast, aiming to strengthen regional supply chains.
Birim Oil Mills' expansion aligns with Ghana's push to grow its tree crops industry through local processing. Increased investment could reduce the country's dependence on imported vegetable oils while opening up employment opportunities. The company's next phase will depend on securing additional funding to meet West Africa's rising demand.
