Secondhand Clothing Business in Ghana

The secondhand clothing business is a significant industry in Ghana. The importation of secondhand clothing began during the colonial era when garments were exported to the colonies.

In Ghana, secondhand clothing is commonly referred to as “obroni wawu,” meaning “the white person is dead.” Some people also call it “foes” (folks). Kantamanto, a hub for secondhand clothing, is located in the Central Business District of Accra. This bustling market is home to over 30,000 traders, although a few specialize in hardware and building materials.

This business is very lucrative because it attracts both low- and middle-income earners. People patronize secondhand clothing for various reasons. Some appreciate the quality of these clothes, others prefer them because they are unique and less likely to be worn by others, unlike new clothes, particularly those imported from China. For many, affordability is the primary factor, as secondhand clothing is generally cheaper than brand-new garments.

Grades of Secondhand Clothing

Secondhand clothing is categorized into three grades:

• Grade A: These clothes have no defects, are highly fashionable, and sometimes have never been worn.
• Grade B: These clothes may have minor defects but are still stylish and in good condition.
• Grade C: These are lower-quality clothes with noticeable defects and are sold at cheaper prices.

Trading in Secondhand Clothing

In Ghana, the secondhand clothing trade is organized into three groups:

1. Importers:
   Importers form the first group. They have agents in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and China who regularly ship goods to them. Some importers travel to personally select the goods. Importers also act as distributors, selling bales to buyers from different parts of Ghana and other African countries, such as Nigeria.
2. Wholesalers:
   This group purchases 1 to 5 bales from importers and resells to retailers and individuals. They are usually found in sheds within Kantamanto and other markets across the country.
3. Retailers and Hawkers:
   These traders select clothes from wholesalers and sell them to end consumers. Some hawk their goods, while others sell on campuses, in offices, or own boutiques. Boutique owners often choose Grade A clothes, which include store rejects.

Market Days in Kantamanto

Kantamanto operates market days that are essential for getting the best goods, although clothes are available on non-market days as well.

• For buyers from importers, Mondays and Thursdays are market days because goods are delivered from the ports before these days. The “yard” area of Kantamanto is particularly busy on these days.
• For those selling from bales, Wednesdays and Saturdays are market days, making these ideal for individual shoppers to visit Kantamanto.

Benefits of Secondhand Clothing

According to Medium.com, secondhand clothing encourages and develops a recycling community. Recycling garments not only aids those in need but also helps the environment.

This industry is vast and offers opportunities for various types of traders, from importers to petty traders. Students on campuses can also benefit from this business, as they can select fashionable items often popular among their peers.

Risks and Challenges

The main risk in the secondhand clothing business is the duty charges, which can sometimes affect pricing. Additionally, some bales may contain outdated or unsellable items, often referred to as “bola goods,” which can impact profits.

It’s important to note that while Ghana encourages the importation of second hand clothing, certain items, such as undergarments, have been banned by the government.

The secondhand clothing business remains a profitable and sustainable venture in Ghana, providing opportunities for growth at various levels of the trade.