Sampson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, has called on traders at Kantamanto Market to close ranks and coordinate effectively to secure better prices and policies that safeguard their businesses.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Awingobit commended the market leaders, especially the Used Clothes Association, for their commitment to protecting the welfare of their members.
However, he raised concerns about poor communication between the various unions operating in the market and questioned whether they were affiliated with national bodies such as the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) or the Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG).
“I have realised there is a gap in communication between the various unions at Kantamanto. They must coordinate and engage with importers and exporters to negotiate prices. They cannot be selling the same products for different prices,” he said.
Awingobit urged traders to demand fairer prices from importers, stressing that mutual dependence would compel both parties to agree on favourable terms.
He also encouraged traders to strengthen their representation when seeking government intervention on national or security issues.
“When there are matters that require the attention of President Mahama or relevant ministries, they must present a strong, united front. My office is open to them, and I am ready to lead them in meetings with the Finance Minister, Trade Minister, or any relevant authorities to seek redress,” he said.
The Executive Secretary also expressed concern over what he described as unfair treatment by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and undue tax pressures from SSNIT, calling for unity to resist harassment and negotiate policies that support the market’s growth.
Source: Gertrude Otchere
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