Dr. Michael Insaidoo, a lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has called on government to strictly enforce the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act, 2013 (Act 865), to promote fairness and ensure smooth business relations between foreign investors and local traders.
Dr. Insaidoo explained that while foreign investment is critical to Ghana’s economic growth, non-citizens must operate strictly within the provisions of the GIPC Act.
He said lax enforcement of Section 27(1), which reserves petty trading, hawking, and market sales for Ghanaians, has created tension in commercial hubs such as Abossey Okai and Makola.
“We cannot build a stable business environment when the laws are not respected. Enforcing the GIPC Act does not mean driving foreigners away; it simply ensures that they invest in the areas meant for them, manufacturing, services, technology, and other large-scale enterprises,” Dr. Insaidoo said.
He noted that local traders often struggle to compete when foreign nationals dominate petty trading, leading to unfair competition and resentment.
Strong enforcement of the Act, he argued, would protect Ghanaian enterprises while allowing foreign investors to contribute meaningfully in sectors where their capital and expertise are most needed.
Dr. Insaidoo further observed that consistent application of the law would improve investor confidence.
“Business thrives in an environment where rules are clear, transparent, and evenly applied. Both local and foreign players benefit when there is certainty in regulation,” he said.
He added that government must complement enforcement with support for local traders, including access to credit and training in modern business practices, so they can fully benefit from the protection the law provides.
Civil society groups have also raised concerns that failure to enforce the GIPC Act undermines Ghana’s credibility in upholding its own laws and risks fueling unnecessary conflicts.
Dr. Insaidoo stressed that “a balanced approach that enforces the law while supporting both locals and foreign investors is the only way to build trust and long-term economic stability.”
According to him, ensuring respect for the GIPC Act will not only reduce market tensions but also send a strong signal to the international community that Ghana is committed to creating a fair and predictable business environment.
