The agreement was contained in a joint communiqué issued on Friday, July 10, after a high-level meeting involving the Director-General of the GSA, Prof. Alex Dodoo, and the President of GUTA, Dr. Joseph Obeng, at the GSA headquarters in Accra.

The meeting followed a petition submitted by GUTA to the Chief of Staff, with a copy to the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, expressing concerns about the programme’s implementation.

According to the communiqué, both parties held discussions in an atmosphere of mutual respect, transparency and collaboration and agreed on some measures to address the issues raised.

The GSA clarified that the Ghana EasyPass Programme is not a new policy or programme but has been in continuous operation for the past 10 years as an established conformity assessment scheme under the Ghana Standards Authority Act.

It explained that the recent introduction of a digital version of the EasyPass Programme does not constitute a new policy, law or regulatory requirement.

The Authority also reaffirmed that compliance with mandatory Ghana Standards is a legal requirement for all products placed on the Ghanaian market, irrespective of where they are manufactured. It said the EasyPass Programme is intended to help businesses demonstrate compliance with approved standards while improving consumer protection and market competitiveness.

The communiqué further clarified that participation in the programme is voluntary and that businesses that do not enrol can continue trading under existing conformity assessment arrangements.

The two institutions also agreed that the EasyPass Programme should not be interpreted as imposing new costs on manufacturers abroad or serving as a targeted measure against locally manufactured products. They explained that the initiative is intended to ensure fair competition and protect consumers from substandard goods.

The GSA acknowledged the concerns raised by GUTA and indicated that the issues outlined in the association’s July 7 petition had been satisfactorily addressed following the discussions.

Both parties pledged to maintain regular consultations and strengthen collaboration to ensure the effective implementation of the programme while safeguarding consumer protection, supporting business growth and promoting national development.

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His comments follow PURC’s third-quarter tariff review, which increased electricity tariffs by 3.49 per cent and water tariffs by 0.85 per cent.

The Commission explained that the latest adjustments were largely driven by exchange rate pressures, despite a decline in inflation and stable electricity generation levels.

Speaking in an interview on Joy FM’s midday news on Thursday, June 25, Mr Boateng said GUTA is not against tariff reviews in principle, acknowledging that utility service providers need adequate resources to sustain their operations.

However, he insisted that the reasons given by PURC do not reflect the current economic realities.

“It is not about simply opposing tariff increases because we all know that utility companies need money for their operations. What we are saying is that when you examine the reasons they have provided, the current situation does not support the basis for these increases,” he said.

According to him, one of the major reasons cited by PURC was the depreciation of the Ghana cedi against major foreign currencies, but he argued that the decline was too marginal to warrant the latest adjustment.

“It is true that the exchange rate has experienced some depreciation recently. Between April and May, the average depreciation was about 4.18 per cent. We believe this is insignificant and does not call for an increase in utility tariffs,” he stated.

Mr Boateng further argued that the real problem facing utility providers lies in operational inefficiencies rather than inadequate tariffs.

He pointed to heavy losses within the Ghana Water Company Limited and the electricity distribution system, attributing them to theft, illegal connections and wastage.

According to him, utility companies should prioritise reducing these losses instead of depending on frequent tariff hikes to boost revenue.

“If you take Ghana Water Company, for instance, they are recording operational losses of between 51 and 52 per cent. In the electricity sector, operational losses are around 32 per cent. These losses arise from theft, illegal connections and wastage within the system,” he explained.

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In a statement dated June 24 and signed by its President, Clement Boateng, GUTA argued that the reasons provided by PURC to justify the tariff adjustment do not warrant an increase at this time.

According to the Association, the factors cited by PURC, including exchange rate fluctuations, inflation, fuel costs and generation mix, do not accurately reflect current economic conditions.

PURC had attributed the tariff increment to exchange rate movements, rising inflation, fuel costs and changes in the generation mix.

However, GUTA maintained that the depreciation of the cedi between April and May was minimal and insufficient to justify an increase in utility tariffs.

“It is true that the cedi depreciated by an average of 4.18 per cent between April and May, but this depreciation is insignificant and does not call for any increment,” the statement said.

The Association also pointed out that inflation only increased marginally from 3.4 per cent in April to 3.7 per cent in May.

On fuel prices, GUTA noted that petroleum products recorded reductions during the second pricing window in June, with petrol prices falling by 9.3 per cent and diesel prices declining by 1.7 per cent.

The traders’ association further argued that there are currently no significant challenges with electricity generation that would justify adjustments based on the generation mix.

“On the issue of generation mix, there is no problem, as all the machines are working,” the statement added.

GUTA warned that the implementation of the new tariffs would increase production costs for manufacturers and businesses, leading to higher prices for goods and services.

According to the Association, rather than resorting to tariff increases, PURC should focus on addressing inefficiencies and operational waste within utility companies to improve revenue generation and service delivery.

“What PURC must be concerned with has to do with the inefficiencies and waste in the utility companies so that they can perform better and improve on their revenue assurance, and not always resorting to tariff increments,” GUTA stated.

The Association has therefore appealed to PURC to reconsider its decision and suspend the planned tariff increases to protect businesses and consumers from additional financial burdens.

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The traders’ body says the move is a major step toward reducing the cost of doing business at Ghana’s ports, where importers and exporters have long complained about excessive and unjustified charges imposed by shipping lines and their agents.

According to GUTA, the Container Administrative Charge—introduced in the late 1980s—has outlived its original purpose but has continued to increase over the years, placing a heavy financial burden on traders. In 2024 alone, shippers reportedly paid about GH¢1.69 billion under the charge.

GUTA noted that the new cap follows extensive stakeholder consultations involving trade groups, freight forwarders and shipping agents under the framework of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).

The association believes the GH¢550 ceiling will bring much-needed relief, estimating annual savings of about GH¢802.5 million for businesses. It also welcomed the decision to denominate the charge in cedis rather than dollars, describing it as a move that will improve transparency and cost predictability.

While acknowledging the role of shipping agents, GUTA insisted there is no justification for the continuous increase in the charge, especially when its original basis no longer applies.

The association further described the directive as a starting point in broader efforts to eliminate unfair port fees and restore balance within Ghana’s trade environment.

Speaking on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, he stated that although stakeholders are scheduled to meet the Transport Minister as part of efforts to address the ongoing strike, the engagement is unlikely to produce meaningful results.

According to him, previous engagements with the Ministry and the Ghana Revenue Authority, including the Deputy Finance Minister, during the early stages of the system’s implementation did not yield positive outcomes.

He claimed that concerns raised by stakeholders were not given the needed attention, creating frustration among industry players.

Oheneba Kwesi Afawuah stressed that the issues at hand require direct intervention from the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who oversees the broader policy framework.

He therefore called for a high-level meeting involving the Finance Minister, the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations, importers, clearing agents, freight forwarders, and other trade groups to find lasting solutions.

He maintained that only such an inclusive and authoritative engagement can effectively address the challenges posed by the Publican AI system.

“The Transport Minister can’t solve our problem, we need direct engagement with the Finance Minister and all stakeholders to resolve the issue,” he stated.

GUTA President Clement Boateng said that although traders continue to respect the Minister due to his office, the manner in which meetings have been handled has been unacceptable.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, he noted that engagements with government over the Publican AI system have yielded little progress despite over a month of discussions.

Mr. Boateng said traders were not adequately consulted prior to the rollout of the system, adding that stakeholder engagement only began after implementation had already commenced.

He stressed that the private sector remains the engine of growth and must be provided with an enabling environment, including proper consultation on major policy changes.

According to him, GUTA has already expressed strong concerns about the system and expects government to listen and work collaboratively to address the challenges facing importers and traders.

The association has outlined plans to take further action to draw attention to the issue, insisting that the current situation at the ports requires urgent intervention.

“The Minister requested that we suspend our current action until we have a meeting with him. However, we want the government to recognise that what is happening is unacceptable. It has been over a month of back-and-forth communications, and during meetings, the Deputy Minister conducts himself as if he is addressing children. We give him the respect he deserves because of his position, but it’s clear that the private sector is the engine of growth, and there needs to be an enabling environment for it to thrive, including in trade facilitation,” he said.

“Unfortunately, all the meetings we’ve had with him have not yielded any results. We have expressed our dissatisfaction with an initiative he has introduced, and he needs to listen to our concerns. We should be able to communicate amicably to find the best path forward for all involved,” he added.

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Speaking on Ekosiisen on Asempa FM, he stated that government failed to engage major players in the import and export sector, including clearing agents and freight forwarders, before implementing the system.

According to him, the first time stakeholders heard about the Publican AI system was during the presentation of the 2026 Budget by the Finance Minister.

Mr. Boateng added that even after the announcement, no meaningful engagement was carried out with industry players before the system was rolled out.

He contrasted this with the introduction of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), where extensive stakeholder consultations were held prior to its implementation.

He noted that continuous engagement after ICUMS was introduced helped address operational challenges, contributing to its effectiveness.

The GUTA President emphasised that the absence of such consultations in the case of Publican AI has contributed to the current concerns being raised by stakeholders.

“There was no stakeholder engagement before the implementation of the Publican AI system,” he stated.

He maintained that engaging industry players is critical to ensuring the smooth implementation of policies that directly affect their operations.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he urged the associations to listen to public concerns and place a temporary pause on the strike.

According to him, while the right to strike is legitimate, its impact on ordinary Ghanaians cannot be ignored.

He noted that industrial actions, regardless of form, tend to affect the economy and worsen the living conditions of citizens.

Mr. Forson emphasized that as a public figure, his stance is guided by national interest rather than political affiliation, adding that he would not support actions that negatively affect the country simply because he is in opposition.

He therefore called on GUTA and relevant stakeholders to engage the appropriate authorities to find a lasting solution.

He further urged the association to “put a human face” to their actions and consider the broader consequences of the strike on businesses and daily life.

“Put a human face to the strike and end it because strikes in any form affect the economy and the standard of living of people,” he added.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he described such claims as false and misleading.

According to him, GUTA had outlined a series of planned actions to draw government attention to the challenges faced by importers and traders, particularly regarding the new Publican AI system at the ports.

“We have not suspended our strike. Some activities were paused, but key directives remain in force until further engagement with the Transport Minister,” he said.

He explained that during a recent meeting with the Ghana Shippers Authority, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, the association agreed to suspend some of its planned activities out of respect for the engagement.

However, he clarified that key directives remain in force, including instructions for freight forwarders not to make payments and for clearing agents to halt operations.

Mr Boateng stressed that these actions will continue until a scheduled meeting with the Transport Minister on Thursday.

He reiterated that reports claiming a full suspension of the strike are inaccurate and do not reflect the true position of the association.

The meeting comes against the backdrop of rising tension within the trading and logistics sector, following a directive from GUTA that triggered a sit-down strike by freight forwarders and clearing agents on Monday, April 13.

The industrial action is in protest against what stakeholders describe as inadequate consultation and limited clarity surrounding the implementation of the system.

Although the Publican AI platform has been introduced to improve efficiency and transparency in cargo clearance, it has faced strong pushback from sections of the trading community.

Speaking to Citi News after a meeting with the Ghana Shippers Authority, GUTA Vice President Joseph Paddy said the association had requested a temporary suspension of the system to allow for further engagement.

“Beyond the sit-down strike by our agents, there are so many programmes and activities we want to embark on. We also told the chief executive officer that the programme should be suspended, but he gave us assurance that the Transport Minister was interested in the matter. He had travelled, but we were told to give him two days as he will meet us on Thursday morning to resolve the challenges,” he said.

The upcoming discussions are expected to focus on the implementation framework of the Publican AI system, stakeholder concerns about its impact on business operations, and possible adjustments to ease the transition.

With port activities serving as a critical pillar of Ghana’s economy, any prolonged disruption is likely to affect trade flows, supply chains, and businesses across the country.

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In a press statement, the Association expressed grave concern over what it described as unresolved challenges affecting traders despite engagements with government.

According to GUTA, traders are currently facing unpredictable and excessively high duty assessments, prolonged delays in cargo clearance, rising demurrage and rent charges, and the absence of an effective system for resolving valuation disputes.

The Association warned that these challenges have created an unsustainable business environment and pose a serious threat to trade operations across the country.

As part of its response, GUTA has directed freight forwarders and clearing agents to suspend payment of duties and lay down their tools from Monday, April 13 to Friday, April 17, 2026.

It also advised its members to temporarily halt all import activities until clarity and predictability are restored within the system.

GUTA is further demanding the immediate suspension of the Publican AI system in its current form, calling for a comprehensive review of its implementation.

The Association urged government to take urgent steps to restore confidence, fairness, and stability in Ghana’s trade regime.

Speaking on Nnawotwe Yi on Adom TV, the President of the Association, Clement Boateng, said authorities have introduced Artificial Intelligence (AI) in calculating and determining duties on goods at the port.

He explained that, in addition to the AI-based calculations, officers at the port also conduct manual assessments of goods, resulting in discrepancies in the final charges.

According to him, in some instances, the AI-generated figures are higher than those calculated manually, and in other cases, the reverse is true.

Mr. Boateng noted that this process sometimes leads to importers being charged twice for the same goods.

He further stated that the situation has worsened following a directive from the Ghana Revenue Authority, which instructed officers not to charge below the AI-calculated amounts. However, in cases where the AI figures are lower, officers are directed to apply the higher manual estimates.

Clement Boateng warned that if the situation persists, traders will be forced to increase the prices of goods, with consumers ultimately bearing the cost.

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Speaking during an engagement with the Minority in Parliament, Clement Boateng argued that political actors have played a role in allowing foreign investors—particularly from China—to gain a foothold in several key sectors.

He listed areas such as retail, construction, mining, finance, communications, and small-scale trading as sectors increasingly dominated by foreign participation.

According to him, the development has pushed many Ghanaian entrepreneurs to the margins, while also contributing to environmental challenges, especially in the mining sector where water bodies have been polluted.

“I will blame both the Minority and the Majority because it is you, the politicians, who help allow these foreigners to flood our market and then try as much as possible to displace the locals and then take the market completely,” he said.

Mr Boateng also criticised what he described as weak enforcement of laws, including the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, which is intended to protect certain sectors for Ghanaian businesses.

“Despite these laws, key economic areas continue to be occupied by foreigners, and nothing is being done to protect local businesses,” he added.

He further cautioned that many politicians are themselves businesspeople and could face the consequences of current policies once they leave public office.

“When you return to business, you will find that opportunities have already been taken over by foreigners because of the failure of politicians to act,” he said.

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Deputy Commissioner in charge of Communications and Public Affairs, Florence Asante, explained that GRA and GUTA had previously agreed to establish a joint technical committee to address the challenges posed by the new tax regime.

“We met with GUTA leadership a while ago, and together we issued a release confirming the formation of a joint technical team to address their concerns,” she said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem.

She added, “GUTA has already submitted the names of their representatives, and our team is on board as well. The framework has been established, but we have not met yet. We have called GUTA leaders this week, and a meeting will take place shortly.”

Madam Asante stated that GRA is responsive and acting within the law.

“It’s not as if we are ignoring them. The law gives us the mandate to review the tax, and we are only applying it. We cannot change the law on our own. We are partners with GUTA and other stakeholders, and we will meet them to ensure the law is implemented fairly,” she said.

Asked why major stakeholders appeared to have been left out of discussions, she said, “That is not the case. In all our previous engagements, we have worked closely with GUTA and other leaders. We will not deliberately omit anyone from these consultations.”

Reacting on the same show, GUTA President Clement Boateng acknowledged the cordial relationship with the GRA but expressed frustration over a lack of follow-up.

“Yes, we have a good working relationship with the GRA, but in this tax issue, we have only met with them once. Since then, we have not heard back, even though we agreed to engage on the challenges we are facing,” he said.

The new VAT regime replaces the previous 4% flat-rate system for some traders with a standard rate of about 20%, allowing full input tax deductibility.

While the policy aims to streamline tax administration, widen the tax net, and improve revenue mobilization, market traders, particularly at Abossey Okai and other major trading hubs, have raised concerns that the transition could disrupt business operations and push up prices if not properly managed.

GUTA has called on the GRA and the government to engage traders respectfully and transparently, warning that intimidation and sudden enforcement could hurt compliance and destabilize the market.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Boateng said although an initial meeting was held with the GRA, there has been no follow-up engagement despite agreements reached.

According to him, the implementation of the new VAT law began during a holiday period, which made it difficult for traders to immediately respond.

“By the time the implementation started, it was a holiday. When we resumed, we approached the GRA because we foresaw that the new law would come with challenges,” he explained.

Mr. Boateng disclosed that at the end of their meeting with the GRA on January 5, both parties agreed to form a technical committee comprising three representatives each from GUTA and the GRA.

“We agreed to form a technical committee made up of three members from GUTA and three from the GRA. The committee was to monitor the implementation and address any challenges that would arise,” he said.

He added that GUTA submitted the names of its representatives on January 7, but since then, the GRA has not responded.

“As we speak, the GRA has not gotten back to us. That is a big problem for us. We have not had any meeting with the committee,” he stated.

Mr. Boateng noted that the committee was expected to work through the first quarter of the year, compile challenges encountered during implementation, and make recommendations to government on possible reviews.

“We gave ourselves the first quarter of the year. After that, the committee was to present its findings and recommendations to government on how to review the tax and ease the burden on businesses,” he explained.

He expressed surprise at the GRA’s recent public response to concerns raised by some traders, especially when a joint statement had earlier been issued after their meeting.

“Even after our meeting, we issued a joint release. So if a section of our members has raised concerns, I don’t understand why the GRA would respond the way they did. It looks like they don’t take the business community seriously,” he said.

His comments follow a press statement issued by the GRA on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in which the Authority dismissed claims that the new VAT regime would lead to higher consumer prices and distort market competition, particularly among spare parts dealers.

The GRA was responding to concerns by the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Traders Association that the revised VAT framework under the Value Added Tax Act, 2025 (Act 1151), imposes an unfair burden on traders.

The Authority described the concerns as a “fundamental misunderstanding” of the revised system, explaining that under the previous 4% flat rate scheme, traders paid 21.9% input VAT on purchases, which was non-deductible and embedded in their cost structure.

However, Mr. Boateng insisted that traders are already experiencing difficulties under the new system.

“A lot of issues are happening, and it feels like government wants to push this down the throat of the business community. That is not fair,” he said.

He further revealed that the Finance Minister had earlier referred GUTA to the Deputy Minister for further engagement, but that meeting has also been delayed.

“The Finance Minister referred us to the Deputy Minister, but we are being told he is busy and can only meet us on Friday. We don’t even know what they want to do,” he added.

Mr. Boateng stressed that any policy that significantly affects the business community must be carefully reviewed through continuous stakeholder engagement to avoid unintended consequences.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Boateng expressed frustration over what he described as the unwillingness of the authorities to engage traders, despite earlier commitments to consult stakeholders before rolling out the new system.

“I don’t know why the Finance Ministry is avoiding us, and the GRA has also refused to engage us despite our initial agreement on a roadmap for the implementation. GRA has violated the roadmap,” he said.

According to him, GUTA and the tax authorities had agreed to establish a technical committee to guide the transition and address concerns from the business community, but that process was never implemented.

“If we had set up the committee as agreed, we would have seen the way forward. But we didn’t follow the roadmap. We would have brought all the issues to the table if the committee had been set up,” Mr. Boateng stated.

He stressed that VAT reforms are technical and require clear explanations, particularly for small and medium-scale traders who may struggle to understand policy statements issued by the GRA.

“This is a technical issue that requires proper explanation. How many people will even understand the statement they have issued? This will only create chaos, and that is why I want to engage the relevant authorities, but all efforts have proven futile,” he added.

Mr. Boateng said he was surprised by the lack of response, given his cordial relationship with Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

“I don’t really know what is happening because I have a good and cordial relationship with the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, so I don’t know why he is avoiding me,” he noted.

He revealed that several attempts to reach the GRA and other government officials have failed.

“I have written to the GRA Commissioner for Domestic Tax. I have sent messages to the Deputy Commissioner in charge of Publicity and Communication; I submitted the names of the committee members to him, but there has been no response. We have petitioned the Chief of Staff, the Trade Minister, and the GRA Commissioner-General on February 5, and till date there has been no response,” he said.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Boateng revealed that he has been inundated with calls from members nationwide after the GRA directed traders to surrender their old four percent VAT flat-rate books and enrol onto the new 20 percent VAT system.

“The number of calls I receive each day from members is alarming. Members are calling me throughout Ghana because GRA has called them to surrender the four percent book for the enrolment to the 20%,” he said.

According to him, the approach being used by the tax authority is creating fear and uncertainty in the markets.

“People are already receiving threatening messages that GRA will soon go to the market with their taskforce to implement the new VAT regime,” Mr Boateng added.

He warned traders against rushing to comply under pressure, insisting taxation should be flexible and considerate of business realities.

“I have told them nobody should surrender. Laws were made for man and not man for laws. People shouldn’t be forced to pay taxes.

“Taxes should be made affordable and flexible for everyone to pay so the compliance level will be high, else a lot of people will evade, and you will not meet your target,” he stated.

Mr Boateng argued that the new VAT system, if enforced aggressively, would ultimately shift the burden onto consumers.

“Definitely if this takes effect, the consumer will suffer the brunt. No businessman is Father Christmas,” he said.

He further expressed concern about the wider economic impact, saying current market conditions cannot absorb additional tax pressure.

“There is no doubt about the micro-economic indices. Everyone knows that it is going down. It is currently reflecting because prices have gone down even though there are a few traders who don’t want to reduce prices. If this system is going to be implemented, prices will go high again,” he cautioned.

Under the new VAT regime introduced by the GRA, the previous 4% flat-rate VAT system for some traders is being replaced with a standard VAT rate of about 20%, with full input tax deductibility. The policy is aimed at streamlining tax administration, widening the tax net and improving revenue mobilisation.

However, spare parts dealers and market traders, particularly at Abossey Okai and other major trading hubs, have raised concerns that the transition could disrupt business operations and increase prices if not properly managed.

GUTA is calling on the GRA and government to engage traders more respectfully and transparently, warning that intimidation and sudden enforcement could hurt compliance and destabilise the market.

Mr Boateng stressed that cooperation, not threats, is the key to successful tax reforms in Ghana’s informal and semi-formal trading sectors.

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Mr Boateng said the refusal by some businesses to adjust prices downward is not just unfair, but also deliberate.

“I see the action of not wanting to reduce prices as a deliberate issue,” he said, describing the situation as one where a trader may refuse to reduce the price of bread, “irrespective of the fact that the commodity, some of the commodities that he’s using to bake the bread… has gone down.”

According to him, such behaviour reflects a troubling attitude among some Ghanaians who refuse to allow others to benefit from improved economic conditions.

“And I see that as an attitude of some of Ghanaians that, irrespective of whatever situation that we find ourselves, we will not let our compatriots also enjoy the gains that we have made,” he said.

Mr Boateng stressed that the cedi’s appreciation is no longer in dispute and that the business community has benefited from it.

“It is an undeniable fact that the cedi has appreciated for quite some time. And the business community has made some gains,” he said.

For that reason, he believes traders have a responsibility to reflect those gains in pricing.

“So definitely, the gains that we have made, we are supposed to also pass it on to the consumer, for the consumer to also enjoy a bit of what has happened in the marketplace,” he added.

When asked directly by the host whether the price reductions have actually happened, the GUTA President responded that the trend is real across the market, although some traders still refuse to comply.

“It has happened across board. Yes, across board. But you see, as we say, we have bad nuts in every community,” he said.

He warned that traders who stubbornly maintain high prices risk losing out in an increasingly competitive market.

“People have made up their minds that they will not reduce their prices. But I pity those people, because the market that we are in is a very, very competitive market,” he said.

Mr Boateng explained that trading is built on turnover, and any trader who sits on stock out of greed could end up damaging their own business.

“The business that we do, we use facilities in doing the business, and businesses thrive on turnover,” he noted.

He added that refusing to reduce prices will only benefit competitors who adjust faster and sell more.

“So if you sit behind your goods… and you will say you will not reduce it for the consumer… you do so at your own expense,” he warned.

“Your neighbour will sell fast and then bring in more goods to make the turnover that he wants, and his business will thrive, and then you will sit beside your goods, and will not make any sales,” he said.

Mr Boateng insisted that, overall, prices have already begun to fall and that this is reflected in inflation trends.

“So I can tell you for a fact that generally, prices have gone down. And that is why inflation also seems to be going down,” he said.

Explaining the concept, he said that inflation is linked to the value consumers get from their money.

“What does inflation mean? Inflation simply means having a purchasing value of your money on either goods or services,” he stated.

And on the issue of prices, he maintained that the evidence is clear.

“And I can tell you clearly that, if you want to talk about prices of goods… prices of goods, you know, have generally come down,” he said.

His comments come amid growing public pressure on importers, retailers, and manufacturers to pass on the improved exchange rate to the cost of goods, especially essentials.

For Mr. Boateng, the message to traders is simple: the cedi has gained, businesses have benefited, and consumers must not be left out.

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In a statement signed by Secretary-General Richard Amamoo on January 28, 2026, GUTA raised concerns over the imposition of mandatory insurance services on businesses, incomplete stakeholder engagement, and the limited competitiveness and track record of local insurers.

GUTA warned that penalising businesses for not insuring locally is unfair, especially when local insurance providers may lack sufficient capacity or experience to handle such responsibilities effectively.

The association has called on the National Insurance Commission and other relevant authorities to halt the directive’s implementation and engage stakeholders meaningfully to address these concerns.

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In an interview on Nhyira FM’s Kro Yi Mu Nsem with host Barima Kofi Dawson, Ashanti regional GUTA Chairman, Anthony Oppong, acknowledged that many traders have yet to reduce prices, explaining that currency stability is only one factor influencing pricing decisions.

“We’ve thanked the President for the stable cedi, but there are other issues that need attention,” he said.

Oppong pointed to landlords frequently increasing rent fees as a major challenge.

“A shop I rented in 2014 for ten years cost ¢20,000 and was up for renewal in 2024. Instead of the same rate, the owner asked for ¢50,000 for just five years. That means I have to budget even more for the next renewal,” he explained, adding that unpredictable rent hikes make pricing planning extremely difficult.

He also highlighted that while headline interest rates have fallen, many rural banks and microfinance institutions continue to charge around 25 % on loans, limiting the benefit to traders.

On the broader issue of high prices abroad, Oppong noted that production had dropped sharply during the COVID‑19 pandemic, a factor that continues to affect costs globally.

He appealed to Ghanaians to recognize that traders are consumers too.

“We are equally consumers just like you, and we are in this together, so don’t label us ‘wicked people’ over pricing,” he stated.

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The agreement followed a joint consultation meeting held in Accra on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, where both parties discussed the impact of the new VAT law, particularly on traders who previously operated under the VAT Flat Rate Scheme.

Under the agreement, all eligible taxpayers, including GUTA members, will charge and account for VAT at an effective rate of 20 per cent. This rate includes the VAT, the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), and the GETFund Levy, and will apply until the end of the first quarter of implementation, in accordance with the law.

A joint technical team, composed of representatives from GRA and GUTA, will be established to address sector-specific challenges such as VAT record-keeping, input VAT claims, and VAT calculations. The team will also make recommendations for future improvements.

In addition, nationwide education and sensitisation programmes will be intensified to guide traders through the transition and ensure compliance with the new VAT regime.

The GRA has assured traders of its full support and a collaborative approach to ease the transition, while GUTA has urged its members to comply with the new law. Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue in the interest of traders, consumers, and national development.

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In a statement issued on November 18, 2025, GUTA said the new VAT threshold of GH₵750,000 creates an “unfair segregation” in the marketplace.

Under the reforms, traders earning above the threshold must charge an additional 20% VAT, while those below it remain exempt. The association cautioned that this uneven playing field could drive customers toward lower-priced traders, disadvantaging those required to charge VAT.

GUTA also noted that traders who previously paid a 4% flat VAT rate will now be compelled to apply the full 20% VAT once they exceed the daily turnover exemption of GH₵2,366, potentially leading to higher prices and loss of customers.

To address these disparities, the union is urging the government to allow traders to opt for a modified tax system that promotes fairness and encourages voluntary compliance.

On the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems at the ports, GUTA welcomed the move but insisted that the government must first rationalise port taxes, as previously assured. The union stressed that addressing high and complex taxes is key to improving trade facilitation.

GUTA reiterated its commitment to working with the government and stakeholders to ensure the reforms strengthen revenue mobilisation without harming the livelihoods of Ghanaian traders.

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The commitment followed a courtesy call by the Chamber’s executives, during which they outlined their vision for a cleaner and healthier Ghana. They highlighted the rising number of vehicles on Ghana’s roads—nearly three million—along with motorbikes, tricycles, shipping companies, and private airlines, all contributing to environmental strain, health hazards, and road accidents.

In response, Dr. Obeng commended Autodata Ghana for its foresight and pledged to actively engage in advocacy and public awareness campaigns. “Environmental protection and public health are of paramount importance. God blessed humanity with a rich environment, but human activities such as galamsey, unsustainable practices, and unchecked fossil fuel emissions are destroying it at an alarming rate,” he said.

He further stressed that Ghana should learn from Europe, where fossil fuel emissions are treated as a serious threat, and called for closer collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency and other stakeholders to enforce policies and implement practical solutions.

The Chamber’s Executive Secretary, George Dumenu, described Dr. Obeng’s endorsement as a major boost, saying, “His support strengthens our resolve. We are more determined than ever to push forward with advocacy, infrastructure development, and partnerships that will help Ghana meet its 15% emissions reduction target by 2030.”

The meeting concluded with Dr. Obeng taking the delegation on a tour of his showroom, sharing insights on aligning technology and infrastructure with sustainable initiatives such as electric vehicles and green transport systems. The visit marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration to protect public health and preserve the environment for future generations.

Source: Adomonline

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The Association argues that retail trading is explicitly reserved for Ghanaian citizens under national law and laments the growing disregard for this provision.

According to Section 27(1) of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, 2013 (Act 865), non-Ghanaians are prohibited from engaging in retail trade, hawking, petty trading, or operating in stalls and markets.

Yet, foreign nationals continue to visibly flout this restriction, especially in major trading centres, sparking mounting frustration among local traders.

Traders, particularly mobile phone dealers and shopkeepers, have expressed dismay over what they describe as weak enforcement of the law, allowing foreign operators to undercut prices and threaten the sustainability of Ghanaian businesses.

In an interview with Citi FM, the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of GUTA, Nana Kwabena Peprah, criticised the government’s inaction and warned of growing agitation among members.

“We’ve not had any response from the government after the protest at Circle, neither have we had any invitation from the government to dialogue on the issues. Due to the protest at Circle, we are getting feedback from all other sectors including the regions,” he stated.

“People are agitating and the government must immediately take action or else, GUTA members will begin demonstrations on those issues.”

The threat follows a recent protest at Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra and comes amid renewed debate about the country’s retail trade policy and its enforcement mechanisms.

GUTA has cautioned that if regulatory authorities fail to rigorously implement the GIPC Act’s provisions, the consequence could be widespread unrest within Ghana’s commercial landscape.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

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This follows a meeting between the central bank and the leadership of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), during which the BoG assured that sufficient foreign currency is available to meet legitimate business needs.

In a statement issued by GUTA, its president, Dr. Joseph Obeng, disclosed that the central bank has pledged to investigate the concerns raised by traders and engage commercial banks to understand the reasons behind the perceived shortage of forex.

The BoG also promised to take the necessary steps to address any bottlenecks within the commercial banking sector that may be affecting the smooth distribution of forex to importers and other traders.

In the meantime, GUTA is urging its members and the wider business community to remain calm and assured of the BoG’s commitment to resolving the issue.

Dr. Obeng encouraged members to report any persistent challenges in accessing forex to the association for further engagement with the relevant authorities.

The intervention comes at a time when several traders have raised concerns about delays and difficulties in acquiring foreign currency—a situation they fear could disrupt imports and increase the cost of doing business.

This comes amid mounting calls for price reductions following the appreciation of the Ghana cedi and a recent drop in fuel prices.

However, many traders have maintained that they are not ready to slash prices, citing the need to first clear existing stock purchased at higher costs.

Despite this explanation, Parliament has called on them to justify their stance.

Committee Chairman Alexander Gabby Hottor-Dze acknowledged that although there have been some price reductions, they do not match the level expected given the cedi’s appreciation.

“There has been price reduction in some quarters, but these are not commensurate with the impact of the appreciation of the cedi,” he said.

He explained the rationale for the meeting: “The Committee on Trade, Industry, and Tourism called for this engagement to inquire into why businesses and service providers are reluctant to reduce their prices, the impact on the economy, and the way forward.”

“We have assembled here most of the relevant stakeholders who would assist the committee to deliberate on the matter,” he added.

Last month, the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region directed its members to reduce prices — a move expected to bring some relief to consumers and potentially trigger reductions in transport fares.

GUTA also hinted at similar price cuts in response to the cedi’s strong performance.

However, consumers say the cost of goods and services on the market remains high, despite these assurances.

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Speaking after a closed-door meeting with major business groups, including the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), and the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG), the Minister emphasized that Ghana’s liberalized market economy restricts government intervention in setting prices.

“Our market system doesn’t allow the government to impose prices, but we do have the power to engage stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of economic stability trickle down to consumers,” she explained.

She disclosed that some manufacturers and direct importers have already signaled readiness to reduce prices in response to the improving economic indicators.

“I am happy to inform you that the direct importers have agreed to reduce their prices — some have already started. We have also heard from GUTA and AGI that while the Cedi’s stability is welcome, it will take a bit of time for that to be reflected in market prices. It will happen gradually,” she added.

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Dr. Joseph Obeng, speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, explained that traders have been cautious because of past experiences.

“When the cedi appreciates, they see the gain, but it’s not sustained,” he said.

“That’s why people are asking me, especially when I made the call to reduce prices, ‘Are you sure this is going to last? Are you not rushing?’”

GUTA made headlines recently when it publicly appealed to the trading community to reflect the cedi’s appreciation in their pricing.

However, on the show, the GUTA president admitted that traders are hesitant because they fear history will repeat itself.

“It’s very important for us to think about how to maintain this gain,” he said. “This gain will come to nothing if we are not able to sustain it.”

He emphasized that what matters now is not just the momentary appreciation of the currency, but how the government and the Bank of Ghana work to keep the gains steady.

“We have to talk about predictability and sustainability. That’s what we should be focusing on now,” he stated.

In response to a question by host Evans Mensah about why market prices haven’t dropped, Dr. Obeng explained, “It’s because of what has happened in the past.”

“The traders are simply not ready yet. They are watching to see if this is real.”

He quickly clarified that this isn’t about unwillingness to cooperate, but about protecting businesses from potential shocks.

“Whatever we have to do—if the government puts prudent mechanisms in place, if the Bank of Ghana continues the stringent forex controls—then we can talk about maintaining it,” he said.

Dr. Obeng linked sustained currency stability to a broader economic recovery plan.

He explained that when the exchange rate remains stable, it helps bring inflation down and lower interest rates.

“This is what will push the other indicators that make businesses thrive,” he noted.

For him, the current moment should be seen as a window of opportunity.

“How are we taking advantage of the gains that we’ve made and sustaining them? That’s very important,” he stressed.

“This is how I’m looking at it—how we take advantage of the opportunity to enhance productivity.”

He believes that if stability is used to boost competitiveness in local industries, Ghana could be on the path to true economic recovery.

“If you can use the stability of the currency to enhance productivity, that will make us competitive,” he said. “Then, of course, we are on the threshold to recovery.”

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Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Dr Obeng questioned the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) decision to raise tariffs despite the falling exchange rate, calling the move ill-considered.

“There was no justification for increasing electricity bills. The PURC did not do a good job, especially when the exchange rate is declining, because they cited the exchange rate as a key reason for the hike,” he said.

He warned that such measures risk eroding the economic relief businesses and consumers are beginning to enjoy from the cedi’s recovery.

“These decisions will negate the gains we should see from falling prices,” he said, urging the government and regulators to reassess cost burdens on businesses.

Dr Obeng also called on traders to reduce prices to reflect the cedi’s appreciation, emphasising the exchange rate’s critical role in determining costs.

“Pricing depends on multiple factors, and the exchange rate is a major one. The recent drop has been significant,” he noted.

He explained that traders are saving on import duties and foreign exchange transactions, and some of these savings should benefit consumers.

“Duty payments are benchmarked against the dollar, so we’re saving there. We’re also saving on currency exchange. These gains should be passed on.”

Dr Obeng stressed that lowering prices would ultimately benefit traders by boosting consumer purchasing power.

“If consumers can’t afford goods due to high prices, it hurts our ability to turn over stock and repay banks. Reducing prices is in our own interest,” he said.

He added that demonstrating goodwill through price adjustments would strengthen traders’ position when engaging the government on broader economic issues.

“When we show good faith, we can hold the government accountable on other matters. We’re appealing to our members, but pricing involves multiple factors. Still, we want to act in good faith,” he concluded.

The national traders’ union in a statement has charged traders to consider reducing the cost of commodities sold on the market as the cedi appreciates against major trading currencies.

The cedi, has since the beginning of the year, seen a positive trend increasing by more than 10 percent.

But speaking on Luv FM, Executive Secretary of the Ashanti Business Owners, Charles Kusi Appiah says the forex is not the only determinant for the price build-up.

He surmises other cost components like utility tariff, cost of borrowing and taxes thwart call for a price reduction.

“Although this is a right call, there are other factors contributing to the price build-up. As we speak now, cost of borrowing, consumption tax [VAT] is still the same. We’ve seen some reduction in inflation by some 100 bases point but that’s not enough for a price build-up,” he told David Akuetteh on Luv in the morning.

Ashanti Regional Chairman of GUTA, Anthony Oppong, is in agreement as he says some stocks of goods were purchased before the local currency gaining some strength.

“All those stocks are not yet sold. We bought them when the dollar was selling at 16.2 cedis. So, if you want me to sell it at 13 cedis now, then it means I will make some losses. Especially for the spare parts industry when we buy goods, it takes three months before they arrive. So, if they should sell at the price now, they could run at a loss,” he said.

But some consumers who called in the show are unhappy with the situation.

“Why do the traders immediately increase the prices of their goods when the dollar goes up, but refuse to do same when it decreases,” a caller questioned.

Another added “They are doing this because the services they render are scarce to us. If they will be fair to us and wouldn’t want to milk us, they will definitely reduce their prices other than serving their selfish interest of maximizing profits”.

Meanwhile, the traders are expectant the prices will reduce in the coming days in adherence to the GUTA’s directive.

In a statement, GUTA acknowledged that the cedi has made “significant gains” against major trading currencies.

GUTA, therefore, believes this should provide some relief for ordinary Ghanaians.

“We wish to appeal to the trading community to adjust prices of goods and services and bring some relief to the consuming public,” the statement signed by GUTA President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, urged.

GUTA emphasised that the adjustment will not only promote fairness in the marketplace but also foster goodwill and trust between traders and their customers.

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According to Charles Kusi Appiah, Head of the Business and Economic Bureau of GUTA, traders are now abandoning the dollar in favor of the cedi, which has shown unexpected resilience in recent weeks.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, May 8, he said the behavior change is a direct reflection of improved confidence in the local currency and a reduced need for forex in international transactions.

“When the cedi is not doing well, people put their trust in forex. The dollar becomes the store of value. But now the opposite has occurred. The cedi is appreciating. So why hold on to forex when you are losing value?” he said.

He explained that, in unpredictable economic environments, traders traditionally used dollars to hedge their working capital.

“You always want to see what you can do to protect your gains,” he noted.

“People used to buy forex just to hold, even without immediate need, simply because it felt safer.”

“With the introduction of GoldBod, where most international transactions use gold, the demand for forex has reduced. So there’s no need for one to hold forex for any transaction,” Mr. Appiah said.

He said members of GUTA are now reconsidering the utility of holding dollars when the cedi appears to be the safer bet.

“Someone called me today asking, ‘What am I supposed to do? I’m holding forex. Are we going to see a downtrend of forex?’ And I told him, of course, yes. The trajectory shows that the cedi is gaining strength every day.”

He advised that it makes no economic sense to cling to a depreciating currency.

“If you think you don’t have anything to do with that forex, liquidate. There are other investment options, probably the gold coin, that you can invest in so you don’t lose totally.”

According to him, the pattern is clear. “Anytime forex outperforms the cedi, our working capital gets depleted.

“That’s why people used to say, ‘Let me limit my losses by buying forex.’ But when the dynamics change, and you see there’s no need to hold it, the demand reduces. And that is accounting for the downward trend of forex in our market.”

Mr. Appiah said this shift is not just about sentiment, but real market choices.

“The confidence has been that our local currency is strong enough to be the store of value. That is what is accounting for the things we see now.”

According to him, many traders are now calling him directly to ask what to do with their dollar holdings.

“Someone called me today asking, ‘What am I supposed to do? I’m holding forex. Are we going to see a downtrend of forex?’” he disclosed on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, May 8.

The GUTA official says the fear is real—and for good reason. The cedi is gaining value, and traders who once saw the dollar as a lifeline are now losing money by holding it.

“The trajectory shows that the cedi is, day in and day out, gaining strength. So it doesn’t make economic sense for you to hold on to something you are losing value on every day,” Charles Appiah warned.

He advised that those who have no urgent need for foreign currency should liquidate and consider safer alternatives.

“If you think you don’t have anything to do with that forex, liquidate. There are other investment options—probably the gold coin—that you can invest in, so you don’t lose totally.”

Charles Appiah explained that during volatile economic periods, traders naturally turned to forex as a hedge.

“People put their trust in forex when the cedi, the local currency, is not doing well. And the forex becomes the store of value.”

But the current market dynamics, he said, are completely different.

“The opposite has occurred. Now, the confidence is that the local currency is strong enough to be the store of value, so I don’t need to hold forex.”

He attributed the cedi’s recent strength partly to government initiatives like the Gold-for-Oil and Gold-for-Reserves programs.

“With the introduction of the GoldBod, where most international transactions use gold to do the transaction, the demand for forex has reduced. Therefore, there’s no need for one to hold forex for any transaction.”

According to Charles Appiah, even among GUTA members, there is a clear shift.

“Yes, the reason is that now the demand for forex has reduced when it comes to international trade. And the cedi is appreciating against the forex. Why then hold on to forex when you are losing value?”

He stressed that forex hoarding used to be a strategy to protect capital when the cedi depreciated, but that logic no longer applies.

“When we look at the dynamics within the forex and the cedi market, anytime forex outperforms the cedi, our working capital gets depleted.

“So people would say, ‘Let me make sure I put some limit on my losses.’ But when the dynamics have changed… the demand for forex reduces, and that is accounting for the downward [trend] of forex in our market.”

Charles Kusi Appiah wants traders to reassess, saying: “Dump the dollar if it’s no longer working for you.”

He gave the advice on JoyNews’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, May 8, pointing to recent market dynamics that show the cedi gaining strength against major currencies.

According to him, clinging to dollars or other forex holdings when not required for immediate trade or transactions is not just unwise—it is economically damaging.

“Someone called me today asking, ‘What am I supposed to do? I’m holding forex. Are we going to see a downtrend of forex?’ Of course, yes,” he said.

“The trajectory shows that the cedi is, day in and day out, gaining strength. So it doesn’t make economic sense for you to hold on to something you are losing value on every day.”

He explained that for years, the dollar was seen as a safe haven for local investors and traders who had lost confidence in the cedi.

“People put their trust in forex when the cedi—the local currency—is not doing well, and forex becomes the store of value,” he said.

“Everybody wants to reference their investments. And when you are in an environment where predictability becomes a challenge, you always want to see what you can do to protect your gains.”

But that, he noted, has changed.

“Now, forex demand has reduced when it comes to international trade, and the cedi is appreciating. Why do you then hold on to forex when you are losing value?” he asked.

“With the introduction of the Gold for Oil policy and the increased use of gold in international transactions, the demand for forex has reduced. Therefore, there’s no need for one to hold forex for any transaction,” he explained.

He confirmed that many GUTA members have already begun reducing their excessive demand for dollars.

“Yes, the opposite has occurred. Now, the confidence is that the local currency is strong enough to be the store of value, so I don’t need to hold forex. That is what accounts for the things we are seeing now,” he said.

Kusi Appiah believes this shift is one reason the cedi is stabilising.

“When the dynamics have changed and you can see that there’s no need to hold on to [forex], the demand reduces. And that is accounting for the downward trend of forex in our market.”

He urged traders to explore alternatives.

“There are other investment options—probably the gold coin—that you can invest in so that you don’t lose totally.”

In a final warning to speculators, he said: “When forex outperforms the cedi, our working capital gets depleted. But if the cedi is now stable and strong, then it’s time to rethink. Liquidate what you don’t need.”

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He described the administration’s approach as effective and grounded in experience.

Speaking on the President’s performance so far in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Obeng noted that Mahama’s return to office has been marked by constructive stakeholder engagement and visible efforts across multiple sectors.

“I think because he has been president before, he has learned his lessons. Prior to his government, he held several key stakeholder meetings that are now bearing fruit. I think generally, he has done well,” Dr. Obeng said.

President Mahama had promised to fulfill 25 campaign pledges within his first 120 days, covering areas such as the economy, governance, education, national security, and the environment.

While not all have been completed, the administration maintains that implementation is on track.

Watch the video below:

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The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has vehemently rejected the recent utility tariff increase approved by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC).

In a statement signed by the General Secretary, Alpha Shaban, GUTA described the tariff hike as unjustified and warned that it would place an unfair burden on consumers.

GUTA pointed to systemic inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement within the utility sector, accusing both the PURC and utility providers of failing to tackle wastage and corruption within the industry.

The PURC, on Friday, April 11, 2025, announced that electricity tariffs would rise by 14.75% and water tariffs by 4.02%, effective May 3.

The Commission attributed the increases to fluctuations in the exchange rate, rising domestic inflation, the cost of natural gas, and changes in the electricity generation mix.

However, the business community has raised several concerns, including inflated procurement costs that benefit individuals, ineffective bill collection from state institutions leading to debts passed on to consumers, rampant illegal connections, weak oversight by the PURC, and theft incidents such as the missing ECG containers scandal.

Emphasising the need for transparency, accountability, and better governance to protect consumers and stabilise the economy, GUTA is demanding stronger action against corruption.

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The meeting, part of BoG’s broader stakeholder engagement following its recent Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) session, aimed to foster dialogue with the business sector amidst the country’s tightening monetary policy environment.

The Bank acknowledged the frustrations of traders over high borrowing costs and assured GUTA of its commitment to supporting a stable macroeconomic environment conducive to long-term growth.

BoG explained that both external and domestic inflationary pressures have driven its recent policy stance, which includes raising interest rates to anchor inflation expectations and protect purchasing power.

In its presentation to GUTA executives, the central bank defended the rate hike, saying it was necessary to curb inflation, which if left unchecked, would erode business confidence and economic stability.

While admitting the policy may pose short-term difficulties for businesses, the Bank maintained that it is vital for preserving long-term economic health.

For the first time since the adoption of its inflation-targeting regime, the MPC disclosed individual voting patterns of its members—an unprecedented move toward transparency and accountability in Ghana’s monetary policymaking.

The Bank believes this will build public confidence and help businesses make informed decisions.

Present at the meeting were key BoG officials, including Dr. Philip Abradu-Otoo, Director of Research; Bernard Otabil, Director of Communications; Ismail Adam, Acting Head of Banking Supervision; and Mr. Ernest Nii Sowah Ahulu, Officer-in-Charge of Financial Markets.

GUTA was represented by its President, Dr. Joseph Obeng; First Vice President, Clement Boateng; Second Vice President, Charles Gyan; and other executives of the association.

Speaking on the AM Show on JoyNews on Monday, March 24, he stressed the need for strategic policies to prevent incidents like the recent Adum market fire.

According to Mr. Appiah, a well-planned market system should include regular integrity assessments of electrical wiring, building structures, and accessibility to markets.

He emphasized that such measures would help identify and rectify potential hazards before disasters occur.

“I think, going forward, we should have a good plan for our marketplaces and structures. It should be a policy that, every year or so, there will be an integrity assessment of the wiring system, building structures, and market accessibility. If there are any anomalies, proactive corrections should be made to avoid some of these unfortunate incidents,” he stated.

Mr. Appiah also urged market players to embrace insurance policies as a safeguard against unforeseen disasters. He stressed that insurance companies should be more proactive in educating traders on the benefits of coverage and provide assurance that claims will be honored in times of need.

“The insurance companies should be interested in taking up such responsibilities. It all boils down to education. They need to give market traders the confidence that if they take an insurance policy and are affected by fire or any natural disaster, they will be supported,” he added.

Mr. Appiah further criticized city authorities for their failure to regulate markets before disasters occur. He argued that officials should focus on providing solutions rather than blaming traders after an incident.

“These traders did not occupy these spaces overnight; they have been there for years. We have city authorities, what have they done about it? When people are affected and are in distress, it is not the time to tell them they were in unauthorized spaces. It is the time to give them hope and a future,” he said.

He called on authorities to develop a proper business continuity plan for all market sectors, ensuring that affected traders are provided with alternative spaces to continue their businesses. He insisted that city planners must take responsibility by designating proper trading spaces and enforcing regulations before disasters occur.

“When you fail in your responsibility as a city planner and our market is destroyed by an inferno, you lose the moral right to tell us the affected area was unauthorized and therefore no help will be provided. That is unacceptable. Bring solutions to the people first, and then take up your responsibility to demarcate and regulate markets properly,” he said.

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The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has praised the government for the 2025 budget, describing it as a demonstration of good intentions and a positive step for the business community.

Speaking in an interview on Ekosii Sen on Asempa FM, GUTA President Dr. Joseph Obeng welcomed the removal of certain taxes, including the Covid-19 Levy, Betting Tax, and E-Levy, stating that it would ease the financial burden on traders.

“The fact that some taxes have been removed, especially the E-Levy and other transaction-related levies, is a relief to the business community. These taxes affected us directly, so their removal will put money back into people’s pockets,” he said.

Dr. Obeng, however, stressed the need for reforms in the Value Added Tax (VAT) system, which he believes will have a greater impact on businesses, particularly regarding duty payments and trading activities.

“We expected major changes in duty payments and VAT reforms. The government also promised a fixed tax or duty system at the ports, but we didn’t hear anything about that. Now, we are waiting to see the VAT reforms, as they will determine the real impact on businesses,” he added.

He also commended the government for allocating GH¢51.3 million as seed money for the establishment of the Women’s Development Bank, an initiative aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs.

GUTA’s reaction adds to the ongoing discussions on how the 2025 budget will shape Ghana’s business landscape, with traders keenly watching how the proposed reforms will unfold.

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The Association welcomed assurances from the new administration to streamline the tax system and cut down taxes, duties, and levies, which have long been a burden on the trading community.

“The assurance to ease the business climate through tax reforms is a step in the right direction,” GUTA President Dr. Joseph Obeng stated. “Our expectations are clear, and we believe this budget is an opportunity to address long-standing challenges traders face.”

GUTA has outlined key expectations from the budget, starting with the elimination of what it terms “nuisance taxes.” The Association believes scrapping redundant taxes will significantly relieve businesses, promote growth, and foster a more competitive market environment.

High on the list of demands is the restructuring of the Value Added Tax (VAT) to make it simpler, more affordable, and uniform across sectors. “A reformed VAT system will ease compliance burdens and make operations more predictable for businesses,” Dr. Obeng noted.

Addressing concerns over the volatility of the Ghana cedi, GUTA has proposed that the Bank of Ghana’s dollar rate—used to determine import duty payments—be fixed quarterly or bi-annually instead of the current weekly or biweekly adjustments.

“Frequent changes in the dollar rate destabilize business planning. Pegging it quarterly will bring much-needed stability,” the Association emphasized.

GUTA is also advocating for the introduction of unconditional tax amnesty programs to broaden the tax base. The Association believes such initiatives will encourage non-compliant businesses to enter the tax net and allow companies with irregularities to settle obligations without harsh penalties.

“This is not just about revenue mobilization—it’s about giving businesses breathing space to recover and grow,” Dr. Obeng explained.

On compliance, GUTA is urging the government to adopt effective education, monitoring, and enforcement strategies to ensure the fair application of tax laws.

Traders are also looking forward to the implementation of a fixed duty system for spare parts, a promise highlighted in the governing party’s manifesto. GUTA believes this pilot project could eventually be extended to cover all imported commodities, further stabilizing import costs.

Economic stability remains a top priority for the trading community. GUTA is calling for policies that will ensure the stability of the local currency, reduce inflation and interest rates, and improve key economic indicators.

“A stable economic environment is crucial for business predictability and growth,” Dr. Obeng stressed.

Beyond revenue measures, the Association is urging the government to scrutinize and evaluate its expenditures to prevent waste and mismanagement of public funds.

“We pay taxes to see meaningful development. Value for money should be a guiding principle in public spending,” Dr. Obeng asserted.

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The Union emphasized that having a government that pays close attention to the business sector is crucial for fostering collaboration and finding solutions to drive the nation’s economic development.

“We pray to the Almighty God to grant him (John Mahama) good health, long life, increase him in knowledge and wisdom, as well as guard and guide him in his performance of duty as President,” the Union said in a statement.

It assured President John Mahama of its readiness to work closely with the government to achieve the set objectives for national development.

“His historic return to the Presidency has not been a surprise at all because, given his deep understanding of politics, profound experience in leadership, great personal charisma, excellent communication skills, and other good leadership qualities, we do not doubt his capability,” the statement read.

“We, members of the trading community, the business community for that matter, are partners to the state,” it added.

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The First Vice Chairman of GUTA, Clement Boateng made the appeal while speaking to journalists after they donated GH₵40,000 to support the reconstruction of the market.

“I will take this opportunity to appeal to the banks because I know that there are a lot of people here who have taken some facilities from the bank.

“So, I want to make an appeal to all the financial institutions that our members have taken facility from, to please reschedule their facility arrangement, so that the time that they are supposed to repay the facility will be extended for them to have some bit of respite,” he said.

Mr. Boateng also called on the District, Metropolitan and Municipal Assemblies(MMDAs) to allocate some of the fees collected from traders for insurance schemes.

He emphasised that such measures serve as a safety net during unforeseen crises.

“Sit down with GUTA and consider an amount that we are paying for the business operating permit, that amount should be set aside to sign on to an insurance package, so that in times like this, our people will not be found wanting,” he added.

Furthermore, the Director of Communications of GUTA, Joseph Paddy urged a collaboration between government and the private sector for a well-structured market system to enhance trading activities nationwide.

He stressed that government’s involvement is essential in creating resilient and sustainable trading environments.

“Over some period of years now, we have not had a well-structured market in the country. Almost all the market we have are made by the indigenes.

“Only very few local markets. This is the time for government to collaborate with the private sector, so that we can build more well-structured markets for Ghanaians to trade,” he noted.

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Ajumako GUTA Chairman, Albert Opare Essel, expressed concerns about the prolonged renovation, reminding of the negative impact on traders’ businesses due to their relocation.

He also called on the government to ensure that the allocation of newly renovated stalls prioritizes original occupants over new applicants, a situation he described as common in such projects.

Essel further urged the national GUTA President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, to intervene and support the traders’ plea for fairness in stall allocation.

In addition, Central Regional GUTA Chairman, Paul Kofi McCarthy, used the occasion to call on financial institutions to provide affordable access to capital for traders.

He lamented the burden of high interest rates and urged the government to take measures to reduce them.

McCarthy assured financial institutions that supporting GUTA members in the region would result in prompt loan repayments and a mutually beneficial relationship.

The appeals were made during the inauguration of the Ajumako GUTA branch, where both leaders emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges facing traders in the district.

On Saturday, September 28, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced a 3.02% rise in electricity tariffs and a 1.86% increase in water tariffs for the third quarter of 2024, effective from October 1. The commission attributed the adjustment to factors such as fluctuations in the exchange rate, inflation, and gas prices.

Joseph Paddy, Public Relations Officer for GUTA, expressed frustration over the decision, stating that it will exacerbate the already challenging living conditions for Ghanaians.

“The new tariffs are not justifiable. The increase is linked to rising gas prices, interest rates, and exchange rate instability. But who is responsible for the exchange rate going up? This is exactly what the fiscal committee has been warning about – instability in the system.

“They need to reconsider this decision, or it will make life much harder for Ghanaians. The cost of living is already very high, and this increase at such a critical time will only worsen the situation. Even the timing is problematic.”

Source: Adomonline.com

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According to the union, a holistic and collective approach will be the game changer to tackle the canker rather than resorting to demonstrations and total economic shut down by the Trades Union Congress (TUC)

Civil Society, academia, Trade Unions, religious organisations have all joined forces to put pressure on government to immediately ban all forms of small mining as a measure of eliminating galamsey.

The various groups contend, the irresponsible mining is not only an environmental issue but also a matter of injustice and against the right to clean environment and good health for present and future generations.

“We therefore urge the Government of Ghana to lead the charge in holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that the damages caused to our natural resources are reversed especially when Ghana has signed onto international protocols and conventions that enjoins us to promote and ensure environmental protection”, GUTA President Dr. Joseph Obeng said.

He is of the view that even though the fight against galamsey is a long term initiative, government should be emboldened by the outcry of the public and intervene with all the seriousness it deserves.

“This is a long-term thing to fight, we cannot just give such a short ultimatum to government, it is not fair. I think the President should also take advantage of the public outcry as support to take a decisive decision on this. The whole country is behind him to fight the menace”.

He further advised civil society organizations not to politicize the matter, bearing in mind that the issue at hand goes beyond politics.

“Civil society and organizations should be clear in their minds this is not politics. We should know that this is a menace that must be addressed devoid of politics so we have a sustained positive result. That’s why I won’t support call for demonstrations”.

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A key issue highlighted by GUTA is the registration of shippers and shipping service providers, which GUTA strongly opposes.

In response, the GSA clarified that registration should not be confused with licensing, as GUTA has interpreted.

“Registration simply means registration and should not be misconstrued as a licensing regime. This has been clearly explained and discussed with stakeholders, including GUTA. The registration of shippers is not a new concept; it has always been part of Ghana’s laws: Section 1 of L.I. 1347 (1987) and Section 2 of L.I. 2190 (2012) mandated the registration of shippers by the GSA,” the Authority stated.

Below is the full response of GSA to GUTA

RE: TRADERS WOULD NOT ACCEPT ANY IMPORT LICENSING OR PERMIT REGIME

Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has received news of some concerns raised by the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) with respect to sections of the recently passed Ghana Shippers’ Authority law, which they perceive may impact the commercial business sector adversely. As stated in paragraph 6 of the GUTA Statement, GSA committed to continuing the discussions it initiated from Tuesday 30th July 2024 with stakeholders including GUTA, on the law, soon as it was passed by Parliament on Monday 29th July 2024, to ensure that the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) which will operationalize the law will take cognizance of any concerns that may jeopardize its enabling intent; and GSA hereby reaffirms its commitment to doing so. However, for the sake of educating the general public on the specific issues raised by GUTA, the GSA explains as follows:

1.GUTA: “The issue of registration of shippers and shipping service providers were not discussed with us to make our input as stakeholders in the shipping industry.”

GSA response: a) Registration only means registration, and by no stretch of imagination should it be construed as a licensing regime. This has been explained and discussed with the stakeholders including GUTA. Registration of shippers is not a new introduction; it has always been in the laws of Ghana: Section 1 of L.I. 1347 (1987) and then Section 2 of L.I. 2190 (2012) provided for registration of shippers by the GSA.

2. GUTA: Submission of notice of shipment was also not discussed with stakeholders for their input

GSA response: a) Submission of notice of shipment has also always been in our laws: Section 8 of L.I. 1347 (1987), and then in Section 12 of L.I. 2190 (2012) provide for Shipment Notification by shippers. We also believe that where goods are legally shipped, submission of Shipment notification must not evoke any fear.

3. GUTA: The final draft was issued to stakeholders only after Parliament had approved the Bill.

GSA response:

a) This statement suggests a lack of understanding of the parliamentary process on the passage of Bills, and unfortunately implies an attempt to overreach Parliament in the performance of its constitutional duty. We would like to assure the business community and the public that, stakeholders, including GUTA were amply engaged; and GSA has been in continuous engagement with stakeholders since the law was passed as stated above in the preamble to this statement. Our doors remain open to such collaborative approach to dealing with any issues that affect the mutual good of Ghanaians.

4. GUTA: Issues raised on the suspension of registration, renewal of certificate of registration, cancellation of registration and outright rejection, which are only related to permits and licenses to operate as importers have not been resolved with stakeholders. GSA response: a) Again, we state that the concerns raised in this paragraph are a continuation of the issues raised under paragraph 1 of the GUTA Statement. We wish to reiterate that, registration is necessary for identification, and speed in the processing of shipments, and should therefore not be equated to a licensing regime. It is in the absolute interest of shippers, as time is of utmost essence in their operations.

5. GUTA: The Advance Shipment Information System that had been resisted and withdrawn by the Government in the past is now being reintroduced in the Act. Our position on that has not changed. Moreover, this information sought by the GSA is of no relevance to their operation.

GSA response:

a) The Advance Shipment Notification (ASN) is not new; it is contained in L.I. 2190 (2012), which is currently in force. Under the new law also, it will be operationalized through an L.I., and GSA is currently in ongoing consultations with stakeholders to pool inputs for the yet to be passed L.I. b) We further affirm that, the intention for that ASN is to help shippers in their pre-arrival clearance processes at the ports, to enable the speed required to forestall avoidable costs such as demurrage.

6. GUTA: “For these reasons, the GSA had agreed to our concerns and promised that as the Act has already been passed by Parliament, they would use Legislative Instruments (LIs) to correct any defect or anomaly in the operationalization of the Act. However, our consultations suggest that L.Is cannot override an Act, hence our call on the President of the Republic no to assent to the Act until all issues raised are resolved.”

 GSA response:

a) We hereby state that, the assurances we gave on the concerns shared by stakeholders so far have been unfortunately misunderstood. Once again, we reiterate that, the new L.I which will operationalize the law will provide better clarity on the provisions that seem inhibitive to the carrying on of profitable commercial shipping business in Ghana. Every effort is being made to ensure that, Ghana remains well aligned to global standards of shipping and is thus a competitive route for international trade.

b) GSA further reiterates its stance, that it remains open to constructive collaboration and engagement with all stakeholders and interested parties within the commercial shipping sector, as we continue to confer on shaping the sector into a fit-for-purpose engine of socio-economic growth for the common good of traders as well as the general citizenry of Ghana. To the general public, GSA hereby assures that the law is an enabler rather than an inhibitor to profitable commercial shipping business, as has rightly been espoused by GUTA since it was passed. GSA therefore reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that this overarching goal of the law is not compromised, and appeals to all stakeholders to remain at the table of discussion, as inputs into the expected L.I. are pooled for the attention of the relevant law drafters and makers.

The Association said the law would empower the GSA to exercise control of the port and have the power to approve or disapprove import charges that affect the general cost of doing business in the country.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement organised by the GSA in Accra, Dr Joseph Obeng, President of GUTA, said the regulation of charges would give respite to businesses and ensure their growth.

“We have been propagating all this while that we revive the laws of Shippers Authority so that they can have proper mandate to control.

“The cost of doing business in this country is just too high and this Act seeks to empower Ghana Shippers Authority to do just that for us to make sure that some controls are brought to bear so that they can approve or disapprove; so that we can have the respite to do our business and grow,” he said.

The stakeholder engagement sought input for setting up a Legislative Instrument (LI) that would guide the implementation of the new law.

The trade associations that were engaged include Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) and the GUTA.

Dr. Obeng encouraged other stakeholders, including clearing agents, to also get involved in the GSA’s stakeholder engagements so that all of them would get their concerns addressed in the LI and ensure benefits for all.

Parliament on Monday July 29, 2024, passed the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Bill 2024 into Law after its successful third reading on the floor of the House.

The new law which amends its 50 years’ old establishment law, NRCD 254 (1974), will regulate commercial activities of shippers, and primarily address the issue of unfair and excessive charges that burden traders who use Ghana’s sea and airports, as well as land borders to ply their international trade.

It seeks to ensure transparency, accountability, as well as to increase national revenue and to make Ghana a preferred destination for her landlocked neighbours, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Source; GNA

On Monday, July 29, 2024, Parliament passed the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Bill, 2024, into law following its third reading in the House.

The legislation is designed to regulate the commercial activities of shippers, with a focus on curbing unfair and excessive charges that affect traders using Ghana’s seaports, airports, and land borders for international trade.

However, in a statement dated August 21 and signed by its president, Dr. Joseph Obeng, GUTA raised alarms over the lack of consultation with relevant stakeholders before the bill’s passage.

“The Business Community appeals to the President not to assent to the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024, until critical issues raised by stakeholders are resolved,” the statement urged.

Parliament argues that the law will enhance transparency in port fee determination and ensure accountability in the legal movement of international trade cargo across Ghana’s borders.

It is also expected to position Ghana as a preferred transit trade route for its landlocked neighbours, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger while boosting the sector’s contribution to national revenue.

Despite these benefits, GUTA remains firm that President Akufo-Addo should hold off on signing the bill until all stakeholder concerns are adequately addressed.

Find the full statement below:

The Business Community wishes to appeal to the President of the Republic not to assent to the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2024 until some critical issues raised on the Act by stakeholders are resolved.

They are as follows:

1. The issue of registration of shippers and shipping service providers were not discussed with us to make our input as stakeholders in the shipping industry.

2. Submission of notice of shipment was also not discussed with stakeholders for their input.

3. The final draft was issued to stakeholders only after Parliament had approved the Bill.

4. Issues raised on the suspension of registration, renewal of certificate of registration, cancellation of registration and outright rejection, which are only related to permits and licenses to operate as importers have not been resolved with stakeholders.

5. The Advance Shipment Information System that had been resisted and withdrawn by the Government in the past is now being reintroduced in the Act. Our position on that has not changed. Moreover, this information sought by the GSA is of no relevance to their operation.

6. For these reasons, the Ghana Shippers Authority had agreed to our concerns and promised that as the Act has already been passed by Parliament, they would use Legislative Instruments (LIs) to correct any defect or anomaly in the operationalization of the Act. However, our consultations suggest that LIs cannot override an Act, hence our call on the President of the Republic not to assent to the Act until all issues raised are resolved.

Source: Adomonline

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This move is aimed at ensuring that the interests of its members are protected and that political parties honour their commitments if elected.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, GUTA President Dr Joseph Obeng explained that, unlike previous elections, the association demanded to have a say in the formulation of party manifestos.

“In the past, they would formulate their own manifesto, and at the end of the campaign, they’d come and show it to us. But this election, we demanded that we want to factor our input into their manifesto because they are all potential governments,” Dr Obeng stated.

He noted the importance of this agreement, noting that GUTA wants to ensure it is not taken for granted.

The Association plans to hold future governments accountable to the terms of the MoU.

“We are very serious about this so that we are not taken for granted and can call the government back to order when it fails to fulfil its end of the bargain,” he added.

GUTA has been vocal about the economic challenges faced by its members, particularly the depreciation of the cedi and rising freight charges from Asia, which have made the cost of doing business increasingly unbearable.

The Association has urged government to sustain the economic gains achieved since returning to the IMF, as these are crucial for the business community.

Dr Obeng also expressed the need for greater accountability, stating, “First, we were just building the manifesto. Then after you finish, we demand that let’s put a signature somewhere so that we can refer to it. I think it’s fair because we have to go beyond some of these red territories and then demand proper accountability.”

GUTA’s decision to secure formal agreements with political parties highlights its commitment to safeguarding the interests of traders and ensuring that their voices are heard in the policymaking process.

The President, Dr Joseph Obeng has lauded the proposed policy as the solution for today’s problems in the business community.

Dr Bawumia during the NPP manifesto launch assured businesses of tax amnesty in 2025 if he wins the December 2024 presidential elections.

According to him, the country’s current tax structure is not fit for purpose, and he therefore wants the tax system to change.

In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Tuesday, Dr Obeng stated the policy if implemented will ease the tax burden on businesses and reduce the evasion of taxes.

“The manifesto is solution for today’s problems since it seeks to reform our tax systems which is the biggest bane of the business community.

“If taxes are cumbersome and outrageous, people always find means to evade. There are a lot of tax defaulters and if they should pay, they will be out of business and have no money for recapitalisation so the amnesty will go a long way to help us,” he said.

Dr Obeng expressed optimism that the amnesty would encourage more businesses to come forward and fulfil their tax obligations.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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