The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) says its members are ready to further reduce the prices of goods if the government successfully addresses the high shipping charges and port fees that contribute to rising costs on the market.
According to GUTA’s 1st Vice President, Clement Boateng, port-related charges have a direct impact on market prices, making imported goods more expensive than in neighboring countries.
GUTA has welcomed President John Mahama’s directive to Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe and Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine to tackle unauthorized shipping charges at Ghana’s ports.
“Shipping lines charge higher fees in Ghana compared to Togo, Benin, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria,” Mr. Boateng noted.
He confirmed that some traders have already begun a second round of price reductions, citing examples such as spare parts previously sold at GH₵1,500 now going for GH₵1,200.
Mr. Boateng encouraged consumers to “shop around” as a way of putting pressure on traders to lower prices further.
He also pushed back against claims that local businesses are refusing to reduce prices in response to the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi.
