The Ghanaian government is taking swift action to address the recently imposed 10% universal tariff on imports by the United States, effective April 5, 2025. This move has raised concerns among exporters and investors, particularly affecting key Ghanaian products such as cocoa derivatives, apparel, shea butter, and gold jewelry.
Cocoa derivatives are a significant export commodity for Ghana, while apparel is a major sector in the country’s manufacturing industry. Shea butter is highly valued in Ghana’s cosmetics and food industries, and gold jewelry is a key export item in the mining sector.
To mitigate the impact of these tariffs, the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry is engaging stakeholders to assess the economic implications and identify practical solutions. A high-level delegation, comprising the Ministers of Trade, Finance, and Foreign Affairs, will meet with the US Ambassador to Ghana to clarify the implications of the tariffs on Ghana’s trade and investment climate.
The Ghanaian government aims to advocate for continued preferential access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Despite global trade policy shifts, the government remains committed to maintaining a stable trade environment and ensuring predictability for investment decisions.
In Ghana, import tariffs are structured into five bands under the ECOWAS Common External Tariffs, ranging from 0% to 35%. These tariffs apply to various goods, including essential social goods, basic necessities, and finished consumer goods.
Ruth Abla AADJORLOLO
