The Ghana Union of Traders' Associations (GUTA) has called on the Finance Minister to implement measures to rationalise import duties and provide financial support for local manufacturing. This appeal comes ahead of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review, where traders expect the government to address their concerns. GUTA President Clement Boateng articulated these expectations during an interview on JoyFM's Midday News on Thursday, July 23, 2026.
GUTA's primary demand centres on the rationalisation of import duties at Ghana's ports. The association argues that the current duty regime places a significant burden on importers. Mr. Boateng recalled that before the 2024 elections, then-presidential candidate John Mahama acknowledged the issue and pledged to rationalise duties if elected. This historical context underscores the long-standing nature of the traders' grievances regarding import taxation.
This demand for duty rationalisation fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of balancing revenue generation with business competitiveness. High import duties can increase the cost of goods, potentially fueling inflation and reducing the purchasing power of citizens. Conversely, the government relies on these duties to finance public expenditure, a critical component of national development. The ongoing debate highlights the delicate balance policymakers must strike between supporting local businesses and ensuring fiscal stability.
Clement Boateng, GUTA President, stated, "Since the introduction of the Publican AI somewhere in March, government has so far raked in about 300 million dollars. We think it is quite good money. Therefore, government must now attend to the duty rationalisation." This statement suggests that the recent success in revenue collection through the Publican AI customs valuation system, which has generated approximately GHS 3.6 billion (USD 300 million) since March, provides a strong basis for the government to consider duty adjustments without severely impacting its revenue targets. The Publican AI system is an artificial intelligence-driven tool designed to improve customs valuation and revenue collection efficiency.
Beyond duty rationalisation, GUTA also seeks clarity and support for the government's 24-hour economy initiative, particularly concerning the role of traders and manufacturers. Mr. Boateng emphasised GUTA's desire for its members to participate in the manufacturing sector. He revealed that GUTA has submitted proposals to the 24-hour economy Secretariat, requesting financial assistance to enable traders to transition into manufacturing. Access to funding is critical for this transition, as traders cannot undertake such ventures independently. This move aims to create more jobs for GUTA members and diversify their economic activities.
The implications of these demands are significant for Ghana's economy. If the government rationalises import duties, consumers could see lower prices for imported goods, potentially easing the cost of living. Support for local manufacturing could boost domestic production, create employment opportunities, and reduce reliance on imports, aligning with the government's industrialisation agenda. Decision-makers will need to weigh the fiscal implications of duty reductions against the potential economic benefits of increased trade and local production. The upcoming Mid-Year Budget Review will be closely watched by businesses and citizens alike for policy announcements addressing these critical areas.