The leadership of the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Union has expressed frustration over what it describes as the growing encroachment of foreigners into petty trading.

They warned that they are prepared to take matters into their own hands if the government fails to address the issue.

Speaking to the media, the General Secretary of the Union, Gifty Lovelock Naana Fianu, said successive governments have failed to tackle the problem, leaving local traders at a disadvantage.

Abossey Okai traders to enforce law against foreign petty trading

“We have seen that the foreigners are disturbing us. Government has come, government has gone, but nothing has been done. It is affecting our members, so we are taking it upon ourselves to handle this matter internally,” she said in a video shared by Citi News on Facebook.

According to her, foreign traders have been directed to close their shops and meet with the union’s leadership on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2 p.m. for discussions.

She insisted that petty trading, by law, is reserved for Ghanaians, and foreigners operating in that space are in violation.

“They should only supply and go. They cannot come and do petty trading with us here. We will not allow that,” she said.

The Union accused foreign traders of undercutting prices by allegedly importing goods without paying duties or meeting regulatory requirements.

This, they argue, has made it difficult for Ghanaian spare parts dealers, who lack access to affordable credit, to compete.

“They can sell cheaply because they don’t pass through the right channels. We don’t have that opportunity. Even bank loans are difficult, interest rates are high, and we have no support. It’s not easy for Ghanaian business people,” Fianu lamented.

She added that the Union has given foreign traders three days to comply, after which it will engage the police and other relevant authorities if its concerns are ignored.

Despite the strong stance, Fianu stressed that the Union is beginning the process with peaceful dialogue.

“Today, we will go around and talk to them for them to understand. On Wednesday [September 10, 2025], we meet their leaders. If they don’t listen, then we involve the authorities,” she said.

The ultimatum adds to ongoing tensions at Abossey Okai, where local traders have long raised concerns about foreign dominance in retail sectors reserved for Ghanaians.

SSD/MA