The Minority in Parliament has urged the government to take immediate steps to secure exemptions from the newly imposed 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports to the United States.

According to them, the tariff poses a serious threat to Ghanaian businesses that depend on the U.S. market and could significantly weaken the country’s export sector if swift diplomatic action is not taken.

Ranking Member of Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, called on the government to initiate urgent diplomatic engagements with U.S. authorities to negotiate a waiver.

In a statement posted on his social media platforms on Friday April 4, 2025, he warned that the tariff would increase the cost of Ghanaian goods in the U.S. market, making them less competitive.

“The newly imposed 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports to the U.S. will undoubtedly raise the prices of our products in that market. Ghanaian goods risk losing their competitive edge—an outcome that could severely impact businesses and livelihoods reliant on exports,” he stated.

Oppong Nkrumah also emphasised the need to leverage Ghana’s economic diplomacy, particularly through frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), to address the issue.

“At a time when economic diplomacy was significantly advanced under the previous administration through initiatives like AfCFTA, Ghana must now engage the United States and pursue a tariff waiver for our nation,” he added.

The Ofoase Ayirebi MP also linked the tariff issue to the government’s proposed 24-hour economy initiative, noting that a vibrant export sector is critical to its success.

He stressed that inaction could derail efforts to boost productivity and economic growth.

As of now, the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have not issued any official response.

However, industry stakeholders and business associations are expected to voice their concerns in the coming days.

MA