Jonathan Dabrah, Acting Head of the Tariff and Trade Unit at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), emphasized that collaboration between Customs and stakeholders is vital for the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking at a media forum hosted by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Mr.Dabrah highlighted that while Customs plays a critical role in trade facilitation under AfCFTA, collective efforts from all stakeholders are essential. He called for enhanced cooperation between the Customs Division, Customs House Brokers, and the private sector to ensure smooth adherence to the rules of origin, a key element of AfCFTA aimed at determining the economic nationality of goods and ensuring that only qualified products receive preferential tariff treatment.
Mr. Dabrah stated that Customs could not achieve significant progress in isolation and stressed the importance of alignment among brokers, traders, and manufacturers with the standards set by the agreement. He urged stakeholders to engage more closely with Customs, noting that there are ongoing capacity-building initiatives to equip brokers and key players with the skills needed to comply with the new trade protocols.
The rules of origin help identify products genuinely produced within AfCFTA member states, preventing goods from non-member countries from improperly accessing the agreement’s benefits. Mr. Dabrah explained that “substantial transformation” ensures raw materials undergo significant changes before qualifying as originating from a specific country. He provided the example of Ghanaian cocoa being transformed into chocolate as a case of value addition meeting origin criteria.
Highlighting the importance of customs brokers in facilitating trade, Mr. Dabrah noted that the Customs Division is intensifying its training programs to ensure brokers are well-informed about the rules of origin. He announced plans for an AfCFTA Academy to empower customs brokers and trade professionals across the continent.
Additionally, Mr. Dabrah revealed the establishment of a specialized tariff and trade unit within the GRA to oversee the implementation of free trade agreements, including AfCFTA. He assured that the division would continue to enforce its risk management approach, including selective inspections of goods and post-clearance audits, ensuring that trade facilitation does not compromise necessary compliance controls.
Mr. Dabrah commended the over 60 Ghanaian companies approved to trade under AfCFTA, celebrating Ghana’s participation in the first guided trade under the agreement as a significant milestone.
