The Mobile Phone and Accessories Dealers Association of Ghana has raised concerns over the increasing presence of foreigners in the retail market.
Eric Gyamfi, Chairman of the Association, stated that foreigners have taken over their retail activities, causing significant problems for local dealers.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he noted an increase in criminal activities, which he claims are mostly influenced by foreigners.
He said, “When you encounter five thieves, four of them are foreigners, and that’s creating a serious challenge for us. Our retail market has been affected to the extent that the police have flagged the Circle phone and accessories market as a red zone.
“The situation is terrible, and we want to correct it and restore our image. We are therefore appealing to authorities to enforce the laws and prevent foreigners from operating in the retail market.”
He also lamented that these foreigners, particularly Nigerians, have taken over the repair market, creating uncomfortable situations for Ghanaian dealers.
He added that the Chinese have also begun to dominate the business, to the point where they are directly competing with Ghanaian retailers.
“These Chinese will sell a product to a wholesaler for Ghc10 and later open a retail store, selling the same product at Ghc9 as a retail price. This situation is destroying our businesses and affecting our capital. We don’t hate anyone, but we are only interested in having the law enforced so that foreigners will not engage in retail and tabletop businesses,” he stated.
He accused the foreigners of bringing inferior goods into the Ghanaian market and using unapproved routes to enter the country.
Mr. Eric Gyamfi maintained that they want authorities to deal with the situation before it escalates, or they will “advise themselves” (implying they will take their own action).
“The relevant enforcement agencies should take immediate action. We are exasperated with the presence of foreigners in our retail market. We are advocating for justice and seeking government assistance in our endeavor. If they fail to address the situation, we will take matters into our own hands and address the foreign presence. We want them to vacate our markets. If existing laws are not being enforced by our authorities, then we will take necessary measures to address our concerns.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
