The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana has expressed strong concerns over the United States government’s decision to impose a 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports, calling it a major setback for the country’s trade sector.
Speaking on the issue, Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the association, described the tariff as a “big blow” to Ghanaian businesses, warning that it could lead to reduced exports, job losses, and economic hardship for those in the sector.
“You know, we have this AGOA program with the U.S., which is a bilateral and multilateral agreement between our countries to support businesses. Now, with this 10% tariff, any Ghanaian importer or exporter will have to pay this additional duty,” Awingobit stated.
He explained that the new tariff could discourage exports to the U.S., reduce business opportunities, and ultimately force companies to lay off workers. “If a business owner isn’t getting enough supplies to export, he won’t be able to keep his employees. This will lead to job losses,” he stressed.
Awingobit called on the government of Ghana to respond urgently. “The Minister of Foreign Affairs or the presidential spokesperson must make a statement. What does the government think? What is its position on this?” he questioned, adding that while the U.S. ambassador to Ghana has attempted to control the situation, the reality is that the tariff decision has already been made.
He further emphasized the burden the tariff would place on Ghanaian businesses and consumers in the U.S., saying, “Those who still choose to import from Ghana will pass the extra cost on to consumers. While their purchasing power is better than ours, it still makes trade difficult.”
Expressing frustration over the decision, he said, “I don’t know what led to this 10% tariff, but it is a big blow to Ghana and will be a major challenge for the business community.”
Awingobit, however, remained hopeful that the Ghanaian government would step in to address the matter. “We in the private sector did not sign the agreement; the government did. So, at the appropriate time, we expect them to respond.”
