The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has issued an urgent appeal for a coordinated national strategy following the United States’ sudden imposition of a 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports, a move that threatens to cripple key sectors of the economy. Apexnewsgh reports
In a fiery statement released Wednesday, the pro-democracy group warned that the new trade barrier could devastate Ghana’s cocoa farmers, textile industry workers, and small businesses already struggling with economic challenges.
“This isn’t just about trade numbers – we’re talking about the survival of thousands of Ghanaian families,” the CDM declared, framing the tariffs as a direct assault on the livelihoods of ordinary citizens. The group projected severe consequences including mass layoffs and dangerous foreign exchange shortages if the situation remains unresolved.
The controversial tariffs, reportedly implemented in response to Ghana’s 17% average tariff on U.S. imports, have raised eyebrows regarding their compliance with the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The preferential trade agreement has historically allowed Ghana duty-free access to the lucrative American market.
The CDM has challenged the legal basis of the U.S. action, demanding clarity on whether Washington has formally withdrawn AGOA privileges through proper congressional channels. “This blanket tariff appears to violate the fundamental spirit of our trade agreement unless proper revocation procedures were followed,” the statement noted.
“This demands more than bureaucratic responses – we need strategic, decisive action to defend Ghanaian jobs and businesses,” the CDM emphasized, calling for an emergency meeting of trade experts, business leaders and government officials.
As tensions escalate in this brewing trade dispute, all eyes turn to the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Affairs for Ghana’s next move. Economic analysts warn the tariffs could not only hurt export revenues but potentially trigger retaliatory measures if not resolved diplomatically.
Business leaders and worker unions are expected to hold emergency meetings in coming days as the nation braces for the tariff’s impact.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
