Govt considering strategies to mitigate impact of U.S. tariffs on Ghana’s trade

The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness & Industry has announced that multiple strategies are being considered to shield Ghana’s export sector from the effects of newly imposed U.S. tariffs.

In an official statement, the Ministry assured exporters, investors, and the broader private sector of the government’s readiness to engage with U.S. authorities to avoid disruption to bilateral trade and investment relations.

U.S. Imposes 10% Tariff on All Imports, Including from Ghana and trade

The announcement follows the U.S. government’s decision to impose a universal 10% tariff on all imports, including goods from Ghana, effective April 5, 2025. The decision—introduced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—has raised concerns among Ghanaian businesses, especially as it threatens to nullify the duty-free access Ghanaian goods previously enjoyed under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

Priority Ghanaian Exports Affected

While the U.S. has granted exemptions for some essential items such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, energy products, and certain minerals, many of Ghana’s high-priority exports stand to be impacted. These include:

• Cocoa derivatives
• Apparel and textiles
• Gold jewellery
• Shea butter
• Cashew
• Yam
• Horticultural products

Diplomatic Engagements Scheduled for April 7

As part of its immediate response, the government will dispatch a high-level delegation—including the Ministers for Trade, Finance, and Foreign Affairs—to meet with the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana on April 7. The aim is to initiate diplomatic discussions to seek relief and negotiate terms that preserve Ghana’s trade advantages.

Stakeholder Consultations and Economic Assessment Underway

The Ministry disclosed that ongoing consultations with private sector players are focused on evaluating the economic impact of the tariffs. Government is also exploring practical countermeasures to safeguard Ghanaian interests, with a focus on maintaining investor confidence and protecting key export sectors.

Commitment to Transparency and Support for Private Sector

In concluding its statement, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining open communication with the private sector, ensuring that exporters and investors are equipped with accurate, up-to-date information for planning and decision-making in the evolving trade environment.

“The government remains committed to protecting Ghanaian businesses and upholding our international trade interests,” the statement read.