Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), has voiced strong concerns about the growing presence and activities of foreign traders in Ghana’s local markets, warning that the situation could spiral out of control if immediate action is not taken.
In an interview on Bryt Adekyee Mu Nsem with Kwabena Sam Baniy, Dr. Obeng emphasized that the influx of foreigners—especially those operating without proper authorization—is affecting Ghanaian traders across various regions, including Tamale and Koforidua.
“Our people are suffering in different sectors. In places like Tamale and even here in Koforidua, the activities of these foreign traders are hurting locals deeply. They are opening shops and trading freely without any legal permits, which is a violation of Ghana’s laws,” he stated.
Dr. Obeng pointed out that Ghana’s laws are clear on market operations, stipulating that retail trade is reserved for Ghanaians. He stressed that while Ghana remains part of the ECOWAS free trade protocol, there are guidelines that must be followed to ensure fairness and protect local businesses.
“We are not saying foreigners should not trade here, but there are procedures and legal frameworks they must follow. If we keep quiet about it because we don’t want to offend anyone or because we consider them ‘brothers,’ then we are failing to govern properly. Governance is based on law, not sentiment,” he said.
He warned that if Ghana does not enforce its regulations, powerful foreign nationals, particularly from larger economies like Nigeria, could dominate local markets and push Ghanaian traders out.
“Some of these foreigners are now even becoming chiefs in our communities. If we allow this trend to continue, soon they will take over everything,” he cautioned.
Dr. Obeng further clarified that while the ECOWAS protocol allows for open trade among member countries, it does not permit individuals to flout local laws. “The protocol is meant to allow goods produced in one ECOWAS country to be sold in another—like how Kasapreko exports to South Africa. But it does not mean someone can import goods from China and sell them here without regulation,” he said.
He concluded by urging authorities to act swiftly, saying the unchecked importation and trading of foreign goods by unlicensed foreigners is contributing significantly to the collapse of Ghana’s local economy.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Amuzu Priscilla
