Smugglers Flood Ghana’s Rice and Sugar Market, FABAG Cries Foul
The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has sounded the alarm on the alarming rise in smuggling activities in the rice and sugar market in Ghana. In a letter to the Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), FABAG Chairman Rev. John Awuni expressed concern that legitimate importers and distributors of locally produced rice are being pushed to the brink by massive volumes of smuggled goods flooding the market.
The smuggling is happening through unapproved routes and borders, especially at Aflao (Togo) and Elubo (Ivory Coast), depriving the state of millions of cedis in import duties and taxes. FABAG is calling for urgent action, including the deployment of a nationwide task force to clamp down on smuggling networks and an overhaul of border management.
“Smuggling constitutes economic sabotage,” Rev. Awuni wrote. “Ghana cannot continue to lose revenue and jobs because of negligence in enforcing trade laws. The government’s silence and inaction are tantamount to complicity.”
FABAG is urging the government to take immediate steps to protect Ghana’s economy, safeguard public health, and secure the nation’s future.
Key Recommendations:
Immediate nationwide task force action led by GRA Customs Division
Overhaul of border management with digital monitoring systems
Public disclosure of enforcement results
Stronger collaboration between ministries and security agencies
Review and adjustment of import taxes and tariffs
The association warns that if the trend continues, the formal food import sector and local rice production will collapse, leading to loss of revenue and jobs.
Read full statement below:
