The US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has clarified that the 10% tariff imposed on Ghanaian exports does not apply to oil, gas, and energy-related products.
The announcement follows a high-level meeting in Accra between US Ambassador Virginia Palmer and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to address the implications of the tariff, which took effect on 5 April 2025. Also in attendance was Deputy Trade Minister Sampson Ahi and officials from the Trade Ministry.
Ambassador Palmer clarified that the tariff does not deliberately target Ghana, but is part of broader US trade policy actions aimed at addressing global imbalances. She explained that the levy falls under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977.
Crucially, she stated that products in the oil and gas sectors—as well as energy-related exports—are exempted. The exemption is expected to preserve key revenue streams for Ghana and signals continued cooperation between the two countries.
Discussions also explored the possibility of exempting other critical Ghanaian exports such as cocoa and garments. Officials from both countries agreed to deepen engagements to prevent potential job losses and reduce economic shocks.
The Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated that further diplomatic efforts are underway to mitigate the tariff’s impact. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations and supporting mutual economic growth.
Read the statement in full below:
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