The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) in the Eastern region has taken a bold step by conducting an enforcement exercise to close over 38 retail shops owned by foreigners, primarily involved in the mobile phone business in Koforidua.
This action is a response to GUTA’s allegations of the government’s failure to fully enforce the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre’s Act (Act 865), section 27, which prohibits foreigners from engaging in retail business in the country.
Mr. Samuel Aikins, the Eastern Regional Vice Chairman of GUTA, shared his concerns in an interview with Afeema News. He argued that the lack of enforcement of the GIPC law was having severe adverse effects on the Ghanaian economy. These effects include skyrocketing inflation, rapid depreciation of the Ghanaian Cedi, the decline of the manufacturing sector, rising shop rental costs, and damage to the export sector, among other issues.
Mr. Aikins warned that the union members would persistently undertake similar exercises targeting foreigners involved in retail businesses until the issue is resolved.
He issued a stern warning, insisting that all foreigners engaged in retail trade in Koforidua should vacate the markets before the upcoming Christmas festivities.
The Eastern Regional branch of GUTA has threatened to take matters into their own hands if foreigners do not comply with this directive and leave the marketplaces within the stipulated time frame.
Aikins emphasized that the illegal activities of foreign retailers were having a detrimental impact on local businesses in the region and the country as a whole. He pointed out that these foreigners often sold inferior products without considering the interests of consumers.
With the Christmas season approaching, the Ghana Union of Traders Association in the Eastern region has assured consumers that there will be no shortage of goods before, during, and after the festive season as they are fully prepared to meet the market’s demands.
When asked about their expectations for the 2024 Budget, Mr. Samuel Aikins stated that the association is not ready to accept any new taxes from the government. Instead, they are urging the finance minister to reduce existing taxes to ease the burden on the already distressed business community.
GUTA expressed support for the President’s proposals regarding industrialization and limited importation, but they stressed that these measures should be implemented where Ghana has a competitive advantage.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
