GEPA CEO Joins Stakeholder Dialogue on U.S. 10% Tariff – A Call to Protect Ghana’s Export Interests

On Thursday, April 10, 2025, GEPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur Esq., participated in a critical stakeholder engagement organized by the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry to discuss the recent imposition of a 10% tariff on selected Ghanaian exports to the United States.

This development, which directly impacts some of Ghana’s top-performing non-traditional exports, such as cocoa derivatives, apparel, and many other products, has sparked widespread concern among exporters, trade associations, and policymakers.

Why This Matters

The United States is a key trading partner for Ghana, with an export market valued at about USD 788 million in 2023, figures from ITC T. For many exporters, this tariff is more than just a number, it’s a shift that threatens years of progress and hard-won market access.

“This 10% tariff may not reduce demand immediately, but it could squeeze the lifeline of producers and trade houses,” one exporter remarked during the engagement. “Our fear is whether U.S. buyers will still be interested, especially in premium products.”

For GEPA, this issue touches the heart of its work, ensuring Ghanaian exports are competitive, visible, and accessible in key markets. The Authority has long leveraged trade agreements like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) to promote duty-free access for Ghanaian goods into the U.S. With this benefit now under threat, the focus must shift to resilience, innovation, and market diversification.

Minister’s Perspective: Building Resilience and Regional Strength

Speaking at the engagement, the Minister for Trade and Industry emphasized that while the U.S. decision is concerning, it also presents an opportunity for Ghana to strengthen domestic systems and explore regional trade more aggressively.

“We must use this moment to build our domestic demand and grow our industry so it can compete globally,” the Minister noted, referencing Ghana’s various sectors. “This is the time to review our own tax systems, ease the pressure on industry, and spark meaningful conversations so that local businesses do not collapse under pressure.”

She stressed the need for Ghana to study and adopt best practices from other countries, especially in the areas of taxation and investment incentives. “Let’s learn what others are doing to keep investors from leaving. We must protect our space and make Ghana attractive and competitive.”

On trade more broadly, the Minister shared a strong message on the importance of regional collaboration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “We need to remove trade barriers especially international ones that hold us back. Let’s not miss this opportunity to trade among ourselves. AfCFTA gives us that chance,” she said.

GEPA’s Commitment

In his remarks, Mr. Arthur assured stakeholders of GEPA’s commitment to providing continuous support to exporters. He emphasized the need to reposition Ghana’s export narrative, not just in response to this challenge, but as part of a broader strategy to make the sector more sustainable and future-ready.

“GEPA exists to be the backbone of Ghana’s export development efforts,” he said. “These challenges remind us why we must double down on innovation, diversify our products and markets, and ensure our exporters have the right support systems to thrive globally.”

The Way Forward

As the discussions progressed, several actionable points emerged:

• Strengthen domestic industries such as AGAM to reduce external dependency.
• Support exporters with fairer tax systems and reduce port charges.
• Invest in trade intelligence and product certification to enhance competitiveness.
• Learn from countries offering better incentives and stable environments for investors.
• Leverage AfCFTA through trade missions and regional exhibitions to boost intra-African trade.
• Empower local workforce to match the skill demand of modern trade.

Conclusion

GEPA’s participation in this crucial engagement affirms its position as the lead agency for Ghana’s export development. While the 10% tariff poses a challenge, it also presents an opportunity—to reflect, re-strategize, and rally together to protect the future of Ghanaian exports.