NDC Urges general public to speak against government's Import Restrictions Measures

The opposition Democratic Congress (NDC) is calling for the immediate withdrawal of regulations restricting the importation of key products, citing potential inflation and hardship. 

Expressing concerns, Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Baah Forson calls for unity against tax measures proposed in the 2024 budget.

The Trade Minister Kobina Tahir Hammond is making frantic effort to push for restrictions on items such as rice, fruit juice, margarine, cement, fish, and sugar.

According Hammond,the move aims at boosting the local economy and strengthen the cedi.

But the Minority Leader stated that the trade minister's demand if passed into law will require importers to seek permission for the importation of specified products widely consumed in the country.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday at the NDC National Headquarters in Accra, Forson expressing,fears that the policy lacks consideration for existing alternatives and may exacerbate inflation. 

He argues that restricting imports without available local substitutes could compound the burden on Ghanaians.

The legislator emphasizes the absence of domestic production for some items, like sugar, raising questions about the moral behind the proposed restrictions.

He alleges potential favoritism in the licensing process, suggesting ties to the ruling party as a factor for considerations.

The NDC leader highlights that the 5% imposition of VAT on non-life insurance such as VAT flat rate on real estate, and VAT on various essential items, including textbooks,and other stationary and domestic air travel.

Calling on the Trades Union Congress, Civil Society Organizations, traditional authorities, the clergy, and the media, Forson calls for a collective rejection of what he deems "obnoxious" import restrictions.

The NDC seeks broad support to safeguard the interests of Ghana against perceived economic challenges.