Nana Kwame Bediako, the Presidential candidate for the New Force Movement, has unveiled a bold initiative to implement an embargo on foreign goods to safeguard Ghanaian businesses.
This strategic move comes after extensive consultations with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) to address their pressing concerns and incorporate them into his policy agenda.
Widely recognized as Cheddar, Nana Kwame Bediako underscored the detrimental impact of unchecked imports on Ghanaian traders, highlighting the influx of unregulated foreign products flooding the market.
He emphasized that his administration is committed to implementing stringent regulations in the import sector to bolster local businesses and foster economic growth.
“We must industrialize to develop Ghana,” Bediako stressed.
Cheddar added that, “Our administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that our economic policies benefit all Ghanaians, especially the youth.”
He presented a detailed industrialization plan aimed at boosting economic growth, fostering opportunities for young people, and supporting local businesses. Emphasizing the importance of innovative business concepts and a departure from the traditional reliance on natural resources.
He brought attention to the struggles faced by local companies on the brink of collapse due to exorbitant taxes and pledged to introduce fair tax policies to safeguard and promote homegrown businesses.
The dialogue between Nana Kwame Bediako and GUTA underscores the growing demand within Ghana’s business community for a more influential role in shaping the country’s economic strategies. Their plea for action underscores the urgent need for a shift in the political landscape to effectively tackle the economic hurdles confronting Ghana.
Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of GUTA, highlighted numerous obstacles encountered by traders and businesses, such as soaring inflation and burdensome taxes that hinder their operations. He argued that Ghana can only achieve substantial economic reform by granting greater representation of business interests in the political arena.
“Business leaders have to take over the governance of Ghana to stimulate economic growth,” Dr. Obeng declared. He expressed concern over the growing disillusionment within the business community towards mainstream politicians, stating, “People are tired of mainstream politicians. It is time for business-minded people to take over the leadership of this nation.”
Dr. Obeng emphasized the frustration among traders and business owners with the current political landscape, stressing the need for change. “It is sad people pay more attention to only mainstream politicians, but this narrative needs to change as a matter of urgency,” he said. He suggested that Bediako, being a businessman, aligns well with the trading community’s belief that he could address economic issues more effectively. “The cedi is becoming weaker by the day. Measures should be put in place to address this matter because it is affecting us,” he lamented.
The GUTA president noted the high cost of doing business in Ghana, exacerbated by steep taxes and import duties.
He warned mainstream politicians that the upcoming election might be their last chance to redeem themselves in the eyes of the business community. “Mainstream politicians should pay attention to conversations going on and take Ghanaians seriously by handling matters of the economy more seriously,” he urged.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/ Bernard K Dadzie
