Bawumia engages traders on challenges facing Ghana’s business sector

Story by: Regina Bless

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has engaged the Trade Advocacy Group, an association representing traders, importers and business people, as part of his ongoing policy dialogue series.

The meeting provided an opportunity for members of the group to outline challenges affecting their businesses and discuss possible policy measures to improve the trading and business environment in Ghana.

Among the concerns raised were high and, according to the traders, arbitrary import duties, the rising cost of demurrage, expensive shop rentals, high taxes and difficulties in accessing credit.

The discussions focused on policy options that could help address these challenges, reduce the cost of doing business and create a more supportive environment for traders and entrepreneurs.

The participants also discussed measures aimed at expanding business opportunities, supporting job creation and strengthening Ghana’s position as a trade hub within the West African sub-region.

The engagement comes amid continuing concerns from traders and importers about costs associated with Ghana’s ports. The Trade Advocacy Group recently called for a review of port-related charges, while the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana has also raised concerns about congestion and operational bottlenecks at the ports.

Dr. Bawumia expressed appreciation to the Trade Advocacy Group for participating in the discussion and for the proposals and ideas presented during the engagement.

The policy dialogue forms part of efforts to gather perspectives from business stakeholders on challenges facing Ghana’s economy and potential measures to promote trade, investment, employment and private-sector growth.