FABAG urges government to scrap duties on essential commodities amid soaring food prices

The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has issued a clarion call to the government to immediately remove all duties on essential commodities imported into the country.

This plea comes as Ghana grapples with a worsening food crisis, which has left over 2 million citizens food-insecure and 657,000 children under 5 suffering from chronic malnutrition, according to a World Bank report.

 

Inspired by Nigeria’s recent initiative to scrap duties on essential food items, FABAG believes Ghana’s government can take a cue from its West African counterpart to address the country’s rising food inflation and provide relief to households.

Nigeria’s Presidential Accelerated and Stabilization Advancement Plan aims to tackle the nation’s food insecurity and provide succour to its citizens.

By removing duties on essential commodities, Ghana’s government can significantly reduce the financial burden on households, ensure food accessibility, and mitigate the devastating effects of malnutrition on vulnerable populations, particularly children.

FABAG’s call to action underscores the urgent need for the government to take proactive measures to address the country’s food crisis. With the situation showing no signs of abating, the government must take immediate action to provide relief to its citizens.

Other groups, such as the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), have made similar calls, urging the government to review its tax policies, including import duties, to mitigate the impact of inflation on businesses and households