The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has assured Ghanaians that the government will address the imposed 10% universal tariffs by the United States on imports from Ghana and other countries.
This was in response to the announcement made by United States President Donald Trump.
Donald Trump on April 2, 2025, announced that a 10% tariff would be applied universally on imports from all nations, including Ghana, effective April 5, 2025.
He, however, declared that goods already in transit before the effective date will be exempt.
In addition to the universal tariffs, reciprocal tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% will take effect on April 9, 2025, targeting over 50 countries.
Reacting to this in a statement, the ministry noted that the government will address the issue.
“The Ministry, as a matter of urgency, is also engaging relevant stakeholders to determine the extent of the effect and assess the full impact of the US tariffs on the country’s economy. Furthermore, various strategies are under consideration to mitigate the immediate impact on Ghana’s trade,” the statement said.
According to the ministry, many Ghanaian exports to the U.S. currently benefit from duty-free, quota-free access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a non-reciprocal preferential trade agreement for eligible African countries.
The statement from the ministry also indicated that the U.S. remains a vital destination for Ghana’s key exports, including apparel, cocoa derivatives, gold jewellery, shea butter, fruits, vegetables, yams, and cashews.
“The executive order specifically exempts certain products from the universal and reciprocal tariffs. These products include copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber articles, energy and energy products, and certain critical minerals,” it added.
“The government is committed to ensuring that the private sector is well-informed on the details of the imposition to avoid trade disruption as well as ensure predictability of investment decisions in the country.”
Meanwhile, the Ministers of Trade, Agribusiness & Industry, Finance, and Foreign Affairs are expected to meet with the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana on Monday, April 7, 2025, on the best way forward.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
