The government through the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has pledged continued diplomatic engagement with the United States to address the impact of the recently imposed 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports, effective April 5, 2025.
This commitment was reinforced during discussions held with the US Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia Palmer, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on April 7, 2025.
The meeting, which included the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, and other ministry officials, provided clarity on the rationale behind the tariff.
Ambassador Palmer explained that the measure, introduced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA), is aimed at reducing trade imbalances and does not specifically target Ghana.
She further noted that some products, such as oil, gas, and energy-related exports, are exempt from the tariff, although exports under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) initiative are impacted.
The discussions explored potential exemptions for other sectors, notably cocoa and garments, as both parties acknowledged the challenges posed by the tariff, including potential job losses. Both sides agreed to collaborate on finding solutions to mitigate these challenges.
The Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Agribusiness and Industry have committed to engaging with US authorities through bilateral and diplomatic means to alleviate the tariff’s effect on Ghanaian businesses and the broader economy.
Despite the tariff issue, Ghana and the United States reaffirmed their strong and cordial relationship, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation.
The government remains focused on protecting national economic interests while strengthening international partnerships.