In a press statement dated May 29, TAGG expressed disappointment over what it called “sensational” accusations made during a May 27 press conference, where the Forum alleged a “capture” of Ghana’s ports by private interests via ICUMS.

TAGG President David Kwadwo Amoateng defended the system, emphasizing its role in facilitating trade, reducing clearance times, and enhancing accountability at the ports.

He challenged the Forum’s criticism by asking, “Where was the New Voter Forum during those consultations?”

While acknowledging that ICUMS is not without flaws, TAGG insisted the system has resulted in faster clearing times, unified documentation processes, and improved revenue mobilization.

The group rejected claims of dysfunction, noting that occasional technical glitches are normal and promptly addressed.

TAGG called for continuous technical improvements to ICUMS and urged critics to engage constructively with traders and industry stakeholders rather than resort to “opportunistic” press events.

It appealed to Ghanaians to support modernization efforts and avoid politicizing critical national systems.

Source: AdomOnline

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TAGG acknowledges the severe hardship caused by the incident and assures the affected traders of its unwavering solidarity during this difficult period.

In response to the crisis, TAGG is collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Trade, Ghana Enterprise Agency, disaster management agencies, local authorities, and the incoming administration of President-Elect John Dramani Mahama.

These efforts aim to assess the extent of the damage and provide immediate relief.

TAGG has urged the next government to prioritize the release of emergency funding to help traders rebuild their businesses.

Additionally, the group is exploring long-term solutions such as micro-credit access, business counseling, and rebuilding assistance to ensure the sustained recovery of affected traders.

The organization is also calling for collective action from all stakeholders to support the Kantamanto Market community.

TAGG remains committed to enhancing fire safety awareness and advocating for measures to create a safer environment for traders.

The cedi, which has dropped from GH₵14 to GH₵16 per dollar in recent weeks, is projected to fall further, possibly reaching GH₵20 by December 2024.

The weakening currency has significantly impacted traders, pushing up the cost of imported goods and fueling inflation.

“Ghanaian traders and businesses are sounding the alarm over the continued depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar and other currencies. This downward trend has significant implications for the country’s economy, particularly as it impacts import costs, inflation, and overall business confidence.

“The weakening cedi has directly impacted Ghanaian traders, who are facing higher costs for imported goods. This, in turn, has forced them to increase prices for their products, contributing to inflationary pressures in the domestic market. The rising cost of living has placed a strain on consumers’ purchasing power, leading to reduced demand for goods and services.

“Traders are sounding the alarm about a looming crisis that could lead to significant price increases for consumers, due to continued depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar and other currencies. Businesses are facing unprecedented financial pressures. If these conditions persist, traders will be forced to pass on these Increased costs to consumers, resulting in higher prices for essential goods and services,” TAGG said in a statement.

TAGG is therefore calling on the government and the Bank of Ghana to take urgent measures to stabilize the cedi and prevent further economic strain.

Read the statement below:

Source: Adomonline

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These incidents have resulted in significant losses, underscoring the importance of adhering to fire safety measures to protect lives and property.

TAGG in a statement on September 3, emphasized the importance of adhering to fire safety regulations and implementing effective strategies, such as replacing old electrical wiring, ensuring proper installation by professionals, turning off gas stoves and electric irons, and avoiding the use of charcoal stoves in markets.

TAGG also recommended some measures to help traders minimize the risk of fire.

“Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of electrical wiring, heating equipment, and other potential fire hazards. Fire Extinguishers: Ensure that fire extinguishers are readily accessible and employees are trained in their proper use. Emergency Evacuation Plans: Develop and practice emergency evacuation plans to ensure a timely and orderly response in case of a fire. Fire Safety Training: Provide fire safety training to all employees, emphasizing the importance of prevention, detection, and response. Compliance with Regulations: Adhere to all local fire safety regulations and codes” the statement noted.

TAGG remains dedicated to raising fire safety awareness and supporting traders in creating safer market environments.

Read the full statement below:

Source: Adomonline

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TAGG highlighted that the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has actively engaged with stakeholders since the law’s passage, ensuring that the business community’s concerns are considered.

“TAGG is surprised about the claims of other stakeholders because, the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) started engaging stakeholders the day after the law was passed, and has continued its dialogue on how the law will be implemented to make Ghana an attractive and competitive trading destination. GSA has continuously opened its doors for consultation and engagement on the portions of the law that the business community has expressed concern about.”

In a statement on August 23, TAGG emphasised that the new law is crucial for the broader shipping and logistics sector in Ghana and cautioned that opposing it might only benefit a few at the expense of the majority.

The group urged the President to critically assess and swiftly assent to the law, which they believe will enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in global trade.

“TAGG would like the general public to note that, the new law is in the interest of the multiple stakeholders of the shipping and logistics sector, and any attempt to stifle it would only be in the interest of a few who may not necessarily have the interest of traders at heart. We therefore urge H.E. Nana Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo to critically scrutinize the document and expedite action on assenting to the law which by all standards will place Ghana on the global commercial shipping scene.”

TAGG reassured traders that the law would lead to improved prospects for all involved in the commercial shipping industry and encouraged stakeholders with concerns to continue discussions with the GSA.

Find the statement below:

Source: Adomonline

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The FDA assured traders that its offices nationwide are accessible to all clients, offering initiatives such as the Progressive Licensing Scheme (PLS) to expedite the registration of regulated products. 

The PLS provides fast-track services for those who desire accelerated registration channels.

TAGG in a press release on April 25, underscored the importance of regulatory compliance, especially for products like diapers, which are vital for infant health and safety. 

The Regulation ensures that diapers meet specific standards for absorbency, material safety, and construction, essential for preventing leaks and maintaining hygiene. 

“Without regulation, diapers may not be designed to prevent moisture buildup, leading to a higher incidence of diaper rash and discomfort. Unregulated diapers may contain harmful chemicals like dioxins, formaldehyde, and other irritants that can pose health risks to infants,” the statement read.

Traders are also advised to engage directly with regulatory bodies like the FDA and the Ghana Standards Authority to mitigate potential financial vulnerabilities, 

These institutions provide comprehensive guidance to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and minimize financial exposures.

“The prevalent challenges within our nation can be ascribed to a lack of awareness and education among stakeholders. The pertinent authorities, including the Ghana Standards Authority and the FDA, should improve on educating the public regarding the stipulated guidelines and restrictions. Consequently, traders are advised to directly engage with these regulatory bodies for guidance and support before initiating any import transactions to mitigate potential financial vulnerabilities.” 

Read full statement below:

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According to TAGG, GRA wants Ghanaians to believe that the government is no longer taking import duties through the customs system but has been able to successfully generate revenues through its taskforce.

This comes on the back of GRA’s statement, which dismissed claims that it is deliberately harassing members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) and TAGG over tax collections.

GRA explained that, the operation to collect all taxes owed to the state is part of measures to ensure that government rakes in tax revenues to undertake developmental projects.

The statement also said it has raked in about ¢105,000 within two months through upfront payments, with a corresponding increase in VAT registration.

But TAGG has said they are unhappy over attempts by GRA to misinform the public against the trading community.

“Unfortunately, GRA misled the public into believing that traders do not follow tax regulations and engage in smuggling under declaration, misdescription, and concealment,” Portions of a statement issued by TAGG read.

According to them, their concerns over harassment and extortion were not addressed by GRA.

“In this context, business associations’ complaints about extortion and harassment were not addressed. We would like to take this issue one at a time and ask the Commissioner General and the Commissioner of Customs if indeed all of these containers were able to evade their notice and leave the port, only to be arrested later and lauded by Ghanaians, as they prove in their release statement with examples,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, TAGG has warned traders would never cooperate with GRA taskforce if they continue operating with such impunity.

“Between 2000 and 2008, Ghana served as a trading hub for a number of bordering countries, including Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast. As a result of so-called GRA taskforce using our highways for harassment and extortion, these countries are steadily lowering their flow of doing business in Ghana. 

All we are asking is that, if GRA chooses to rely on these monitoring teams as they claim, they should do so without victimising innocent importers and traders who would be subjected to extortion, intimidation, and harassment at the end of GRA’s legitimate mandate,” TAGG urged.

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Backing President Nana Akufo-Addo’s new directives he issued in a national address Sunday night, TAGG pledged to be law abiding and respect authorities in Ghana, with regards to the laid-down protocols.

The organisation, in a bid to create awareness on the novel respiratory virus, has rolled out educational programmes in Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions to educate the public and traders on the third wave of the pandemic.

“We believe the move to educate the general public to abide by the COVID-19 protocols to prevent the spread of the third wave is by all standards critical, especially for traders,” it said in a press statement.

Read below press release for more: