In a dramatic turn of events, the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers’ Association (GPMA) and its partners have called off their planned demonstration and shutdown of production, scheduled for July 10, 2024. This decision comes after a fruitful discussion with the Ministry of Trade and Industry on July 5, 2024.
The meeting, attended by the Hon. Deputy Minister, Michael Okyere Baafi, saw the government assuring the manufacturers and traders that it would facilitate further dialogue and trigger the necessary mechanisms to stop the implementation of the controversial 5% Excise Tax on locally manufactured plastic products.
The GPMA and its partners, including the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), the National Association of Sachet & Packaged Water Producers (NASPAWAP), the Food & Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG), and the Plastic Sellers Association of Ghana (PSAG), have welcomed the government’s intervention and commitment to reconsider the tax.
In a statement signed by Ebbo Botwe, President of GPMA, the associations expressed their appreciation for the Deputy Minister’s efforts and confirmed that they have put their plans for a shutdown and demonstration on hold. The move is seen as a victory for the manufacturing sector and the general business community, who had expressed concerns about the tax’s potential impact on their operations and the economy.
The development is a testament to the power of dialogue and collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders. As the government continues to engage with the manufacturers and traders, the fate of the 5% Excise Tax remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – the voices of the business community have been heard, and their concerns are being taken seriously.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
