Source: Myjoyinline.com
Members of the Minority in Parliament are strongly opposing the presentation of the Export and Import Regulations 2023 L.I by the Minister for Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond.
They argue that there hasn’t been sufficient engagement with the caucus and relevant stakeholders regarding the Legislative Instrument (L.I.), which aims to restrict the importation of 22 selected strategic goods into the country.
Ahmed Ibrahim, the First Deputy Minority Whip, led the opposition, expressing concerns that the passage of the bill would adversely affect businesses.
“Mr. Speaker, the matter is a very serious one that hinges on the survival of businesses in this country.”
“Mr. Speaker, we are not just objecting, care should be taken. Let’s reflect on the serious issues that have been raised on this floor, and the Minority has raised objections. Which of them didn’t go back to come and fight for this country? And this is one of them.”
“Mr. Speaker, just yesterday, six associations—Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI)—wrote a petition, having confidence in members of this house, that we should take that petition into consideration.”
The Trade and Industry Minister has clarified that the government doesn’t plan to impose a complete ban on the importation of certain strategic products.
Rather, the government aims to regulate the level of importation to enhance local production and mitigate the country’s surging import bill.
However, members of the NDC in Parliament argue that there is no valid justification for presenting the bill.
Source: www.myjoyonline.com
