AGI demands probe into ECG;s ‘Illegal’ imports which have gone missing

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has criticized the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). They are concerned about over 1,000 containers of imported electrical cables that are unaccounted for.

AGI called this situation “most unfortunate” and possibly illegal. They believe it violates Ghana’s local content laws.

The association expressed worry about rumors regarding excessive imports by ECG. This state institution is already burdened with significant debt.

AGI stated, “For a state institution that is already saddled with huge debts, this is most unfortunate.” They acknowledged the Minister of Energy's efforts to address the issue.

In a statement signed by AGI CEO Seth Twum-Akwaboah on April 5, 2025, they condemned the breach of local content regulations. These regulations aim to support local industry in electricity supply.

AGI claims Ghana can fully produce aluminium conductors locally. The raw materials can be sourced from VALCO, making these imports unnecessary and unlawful.

They noted that local manufacturers create jobs but are owed large sums. In contrast, importers receive prompt payments, which AGI finds unfair.

“Importing such huge volumes breaches L.I. 2354,” they stated.

AGI warned that without strict enforcement of local content policies, Ghana's industrialization dreams may fail.

They emphasized that rigorous enforcement is essential for economic growth and industrialization.

AGI praised ECG’s past efforts to promote local industries for manufacturing aluminium conductors and other products. These initiatives created thousands of jobs and could serve as a national model.

However, large-scale imports now threaten this progress.

AGI urged the Minister of Energy and Green Transition to take decisive action. They called for stronger public financial management systems and investigations into all violating imports.

The group demanded tighter internal controls and frequent audits to ensure compliance. They also want illegal imports probed and nullified while prioritizing payments to local manufacturers owed money.

Additionally, AGI distinguished between genuine local producers and those who only import finished products. They stated clearly: “Local suppliers who merely import finished items do not qualify as local content suppliers.”

AGI is ready to engage with the government on this critical issue but awaits decisive action.