Trump’s 10% Tariff Sparks Minority’s Call for Intra-African Trade Boost
Parliamentary Minority calls for urgent focus on intra-African trade to counter new US tariff on Ghanaian exports and reduce reliance on Western markets.
- Minority urges Ghana to prioritize intra-African trade over dependence on US markets
- Calls for financial aid, training, and market intelligence to help businesses adapt
- Advocates for AGOA extension or alternative trade agreements with the US
The Minority in Parliament has called on the government to fast-track the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) following the imposition of a 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports by the United States.
The tariff, announced by US President Donald Trump on April 2, is part of broader trade measures affecting multiple countries, including China and the European Union. Ghana’s inclusion in this tariff scheme has raised concerns about economic dependence on the US market.
In response, the Minority, through a statement signed by the Ranking Member on the Committee on Trade, Industry, and Tourism, Michael Okyere Baafi, emphasized the urgency of boosting intra-African trade to mitigate reliance on Western markets.
The statement urged the government to expand exports of manufactured goods to other African countries and leverage trade diversion opportunities created by retaliatory measures from major global partners.
Additionally, the Minority recommended targeted support for exporters affected by the new tariffs, including financial aid, training, and market intelligence programs to help businesses adapt.
They also stressed the need for stronger diplomatic efforts to protect Ghana’s trade interests by advocating for an extension or an alternative to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants Ghana preferential access to the US market.
