The Minority in Parliament celebrates a recent triumph as the government halts its plans to introduce an import restrictions bill that targeted 22 crucial items, including poultry, rice, sugar, diapers, and animal entrails. The move comes after persistent objections from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) over concerns about potential corruption and discretionary powers held by the Minister of Trade and Industry.
The government’s decision to suspend the laying of the proposed regulations on the Restriction of Imports of Selected Strategic Products, 2023, follows strong protests from various quarters, especially the Legislative Instrument (L.I.). Minority Leader, Cassiel Ato Forson, lauded the government’s move, citing potential risks associated with empowering a single individual with unregulated authority over import permits.
While supporting protective measures for local businesses, the Minority strongly opposed laws granting unchecked discretionary power to an individual. Stakeholders like the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana, the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, and several chambers of commerce echoed the Minority’s stance against these import restrictions.
Critics highlighted the contradiction in the government’s decision, citing its divergence from commitments made in Ghana’s ongoing IMF program, which contains criteria against imposing or intensifying import restrictions for balance of payment reasons.
The proposed restrictions, set against the backdrop of economic challenges and increased taxation, raised concerns about inflating prices and causing hoarding. Ato Forson expressed relief that the government withdrew the regulations, citing staunch resistance and opposition in Parliament.
Reassuring Ghanaians and the business community, Ato Forson pledged the Minority’s commitment to always prioritize their interests, emphasizing the slogan ‘Ghana First.’
The government’s retreat on the proposed import restrictions signifies a significant victory for the Minority and stakeholders who united against perceived threats to fair trade practices and economic stability in the country.
