The Chairman of the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), John Awuni, has raised concerns over the government’s proposed policy to limit the period goods can remain in bonded warehouses, warning that it could disrupt businesses and affect food security.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem following the presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review, Mr Awuni said although the policy may have good intentions, it requires further consultation and review before implementation.
“I also noticed that the Finance Minister stated that they are going to introduce some policies concerning the warehousing of goods. Much as it could be a good decision, I think they need to relook at it because it could affect the country in various ways,” he said.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson announced plans to introduce statutory time limits for goods stored in bonded warehouses as part of reforms to improve customs administration, reduce port congestion and enhance revenue collection.
Under the proposed arrangement, perishable goods will be allowed to remain in bonded warehouses for a maximum of three months, general goods for six months, while raw materials can be stored for up to 12 months.
However, Mr Awuni argued that the proposed timelines do not reflect the realities of doing business in Ghana.
“To restrict storage of fresh goods to three months and general goods to six months is a very difficult thing. No businessman wants to keep goods in bond for long,” he stated.
He explained that many importers rely on supplier credit to bring goods into the country and also sell to retailers on credit, making it difficult to clear and sell all products within the proposed periods.
“Most of the goods that come into the country are brought in on supplier credit. Most of the goods we also give to retailers are on one-month, two-month or even three-month credit. It is only after they sell that we are able to recover our money and pay our suppliers,” he explained.
Mr Awuni added that businesses sometimes import goods in larger quantities when international prices are favourable to protect themselves against future price increases.
“Sometimes businesses take advantage of lower international prices and buy in bulk for storage. If you are required to clear everything within three months, you will be forced to reduce the quantities you import, and that is not good for business,” he said.
He warned that restricting storage periods could have wider implications for supply chains and the availability of essential commodities.
“If businesses cannot keep adequate stocks locally, then our food security is also going to be affected. Government can monitor goods in bonded warehouses, which is good, but restricting storage to three or six months is not in the interest of the country,” he stressed.
Mr Awuni urged government to engage stakeholders in the business community and review the proposed restrictions to ensure they do not negatively affect trade, supply chains and access to essential goods.
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