Petition Urges Parliament to Reject Controversial Import Restrictions Bill

In a bold move, six prominent business associations have united to submit a compelling petition to Parliament, urging a thorough reconsideration of the government’s proposed import restrictions bill.

The Joint Business Consultative Forum, comprised of influential bodies like the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), collectively voice concerns that this legislation could inflict severe harm on their enterprises.

Dated November 26, the petition articulates fears that the bill, if enacted, may lead to detrimental consequences such as increased prices of goods, disruptions in the free flow of goods, and potential harm to businesses.

The business entities strongly emphasize their opposition, calling for immediate rejection by Parliament to pave the way for comprehensive consultations and meaningful dialogue.

The petition specifically highlights concerns about the ministerial authority to decide which companies can trade in specified items, expressing apprehension that such discretion may lead to a monopolistic or oligopolistic landscape, disadvantaging numerous smaller businesses.

The associations argue that the proposed policy’s pricing mechanisms could result in significant price hikes, limiting competition and ultimately harming consumer interests.

Meanwhile, the proposed Legislative Instrument (LI) aimed at restricting the importation of key products like rice, poultry, and sugar faces a formidable second opposition from the Minority.

Despite attempts to introduce the bill before the House, the LI has encountered steadfast resistance, underscoring the depth of concern among various stakeholders.