In a bid to promote local industries and protect the economy, the Minister for Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has presented a bill to parliament aimed at restricting the importation of several products.
The proposed legislation includes a range of items such as Rice, tripe commonly called yemuadie, Cement, Sugar, Canned Tomatoes, Soft Drinks, Guts, Bladders, Mineral Water, Ceramic Tiles, Mosquito Coils, and Insecticides.
If the bill successfully passes through parliament, importers wishing to bring these specified products into the country will be required to obtain a certificate of clearance from the government. The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on imported goods and boost local production.
Speaking at a press conference, Mr. Hammond emphasized the need to protect domestic industries and stimulate economic growth.
He stated, “The proposed restrictions aim to provide a level playing field for local producers and encourage the consumption of locally made goods. Our goal is to strengthen the economy, create job opportunities, and reduce the trade deficit.”
The government’s decision to restrict the importation of these items comes after careful consideration of various factors, including the capacity of local industries to meet demand, the impact on employment, and the overall economic implications.
Minister Hammond assured the public that the government would work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any potential disruptions in the supply chain.
The proposed bill has sparked mixed reactions among different segments of society. Supporters argue that the restrictions will protect local industries, promote self-sufficiency, and encourage the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises.
They believe that reducing imports will lead to increased production, improved quality control, and ultimately benefit consumers by providing them with more affordable and locally made alternatives.
However, critics express concerns over potential consequences such as increased prices, limited product choices, and the possibility of market monopolies. They argue that restrictions could negatively impact consumers, particularly those who rely on imported goods due to affordability or specific dietary needs.
Earlier, the Minister revealed the Legislative Instrument (L.I) intending to restrict the importation of selected strategic products into the country would target about 20 commodities.
“The items, numbering over 20, will include rice, tripe (popularly called “yemuadie’” in Ghana), and diapers,’ Mr Hammond revealed at a Press Conference in Parliament House.
He therefore explained that the restriction was part of the government’s efforts to enhance local production.
“..stomach of animals, bladder and the chunk of intestines (yemuadie), the country had had to put in an amount of about $164 million towards the importation of these items. We are taking steps to ensure that in terms of rice, there is no poverty of rice in the country,’ he said.
“By these restrictions, we are not going to ensure that there’s no food in the country at all; that is not the point at all. There must be some government efforts to ensure we go back to Acheampong’s operation feed ourselves.
There are about 22 items on the list, one of them, I think, is diapers,’ he told the Parliamentary Press Corps.
The Trade and Industry Minister also announced the introduction of the Ghana Standards Authority Regulations 2023, which would streamline the manufacturing of cement to ensure competitive pricing.
The bill will now undergo a thorough review and debate in parliament, where lawmakers will assess its potential impact on the economy, trade relations, and consumer welfare.
The government aims to strike a balance between protecting local industries and ensuring consumers have access to a diverse range of affordable products.
Should the bill be passed into law, importers will need to navigate the new regulatory requirements and obtain a certificate of clearance from the government to bring the specified products into the country.
The government will provide further details on the implementation process once the bill receives parliamentary approval.
As the discussions unfold, stakeholders from various sectors will closely monitor the progress of the bill, analyzing its potential implications for both the economy and consumers.
Source: dailyguidenetwork.com
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I for one I am in support of the import substitution LI. Because like they say necessity is the mother of invention. Ghanaian will find away to locally produced chicken and all these things if there is market for it. However if the minister of trade is sincere, he must also come out to explain under what circumstances will some companies be given the go ahead to continue to bring in this goods. How much will they bring in and for what duration. These details must published on the website of the ministry and in two dailies if the minister of trade wants us to believe he is genuine about this trade substitution.
The main thing is that such a bill that leaves a window for some people to get "clearance" and still be able to import those items is a recipe for disaster. If they think it's important to ban them, why not entirely? Why should a special corruption port be created for only the corrupt to be able to do it?
Massa stay away some of these things There are important issues that your trade ministry can offer the industry no banning of such commonly used meat by the poor. Do you have a credible medical problem with it Ns3m hunu kwa !!!!
Good move,it’s long overdue!