On Wednesday, May 8, Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, engaged in a significant meeting with the leadership of the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG). Apexnewsgh reports
The discussion centered around the current state of the economy, food pricing issues, and potential measures to alleviate the cost-of-living pressures faced by ordinary Ghanaians.
In a follow-up post on his Facebook page on Thursday, May 9, Dr. Forson characterized the dialogue as “frank and productive,” highlighting the importance of collective action among stakeholders in addressing the nation’s economic challenges.
During the meeting, the Finance Minister reassured FABAG members that the recent appreciation of the cedi and the stabilization of key economic indicators were the result of “deliberate, well-thought-out planning and prudent economic management.” He confidently asserted that “this stability is here to stay,” dispelling any notions that the economic improvements were mere temporary fixes.
Addressing the pressing concern of food pricing, Dr. Forson urged FABAG to expedite the reduction of prices at the retail level. “Food prices, which had been unreasonably high, must start to fall drastically,” he insisted, welcoming reports that several members of the association had already begun lowering their rates.
In a call to action, Dr. Forson invited other trader groups, including the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), to “follow FABAG’s lead” in passing these benefits on to the consumers.
Concluding the meeting, Dr. Forson outlined several structural reforms currently in progress aimed at easing cost pressures on the population. These include a review of port charges, levies, and intensified efforts to combat smuggling. He also endorsed FABAG President John Awuni’s proposal for “a national campaign for price reduction,” affirming that the Ministry of Finance’s mission is clear: “we must translate strong macro-economic gains into real, tangible relief for our people.”
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
