Josiah
The government has decided to postpone the implementation of the Export and Import Regulations 2023 Bill following significant opposition.
The Legislative Instrument aimed to restrict the importation of 22 specific strategic goods, including rice, poultry, animal and vegetable oil, margarine, fruit juices, motor cars, iron and steel, cement, plastics and plastic products, fish, sugar, clothing and apparel, biscuits, canned tomatoes, mineral water, noodles and pasta, ceramic tiles, corrugated paper and paperboard, mosquito coils, and insecticides.
Strong resistance from members of Parliament’s Minority Caucus and trade industry stakeholders led to the suspension of the bill’s introduction. Concerns were raised about insufficient consultation and the potential for increased corruption.
Minister of Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah confirmed the suspension, emphasizing the importance of further communication with concerned parties to ensure consensus. He highlighted the collaborative effort required to boost local production of the specified items.
Oppong Nkrumah stated, “There is the need to get everyone rallying around it because it will ensure that the local production of these items are boosted,” adding, “The idea is to ensure that the outstanding stakeholders get an opportunity to have their views expressed and considered.”
Source:Omanghana.com
