The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has renewed calls on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and border security agencies to intensify enforcement against illegal imports, warning that unchecked smuggling is undermining Ghana’s industrialisation drive.
Chief Executive Officer of AGI, Seth Twum-Akwaboah, cautioned that the influx of unapproved goods continues to cripple local manufacturers who comply with tax and regulatory requirements, while smugglers and traders who bypass official channels gain unfair advantage.
“Illegal imports undermine the competitiveness of local industries, discourage investment, and ultimately derail our drive towards industrialization,” he stressed.
Speaking at Prudential Bank’s special customer seminar on the appreciation of the cedi, Mr Twum-Akwaboah explained that the persistence of illegal trade practices not only distorts the market but also erodes confidence among legitimate businesses. He emphasised that robust border controls were crucial to safeguarding jobs, boosting government revenue, and sustaining economic resilience.
The AGI boss further noted that curbing smuggling aligns with broader national objectives, including shoring up the local currency.
“Protecting domestic industries from unfair competition is critical if we are to consolidate the recent stability of the cedi and build a stronger economy,” he added.
The AGI has long advocated stronger trade enforcement measures, maintaining that a fair competitive environment is the backbone of industrial growth. Industry analysts say the association’s latest call reflects growing concerns among manufacturers who continue to grapple with both high operational costs and aggressive competition from imported goods some of which evade taxes and quality standards.
By urging the GRA and state agencies to clamp down on such practices, the AGI believes Ghana can strengthen its industrial base, attract more investment, and create sustainable jobs.
