Exporters association calls for government action on Trump tariff on Ghana

**Trump Tariffs: Exporters Association Urges Action from Mahama Government**

The Importers and Exporters Association is calling for action from the Mahama administration. They want the government to address new tariffs imposed by the US.

On April 2, President Donald Trump announced a 10% tax on imports from Ghana. Samson Asaki Awingobit, the association's Executive Secretary, described this as a significant blow to Ghanaian exporters. He expressed concerns that these tariffs could lead to job losses.

Awingobit stated that reduced exports may affect employees in the sector. If exporters cannot supply goods, they may not be able to keep their workers. This situation could result in layoffs.

He urged the government to respond publicly to these tariff hikes. Awingobit emphasized that international relations are at stake. He believes the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should make an official statement.

According to US trade data, total goods trade between the US and Ghana was $2.1 billion in 2024. The US had a trade deficit with Ghana of $204.4 million last year, which increased by 73.3% compared to 2023.

US Ambassador Virginia Palmer addressed concerns about the tariffs' impact on Ghanaian exports. She assured that trade between Ghana and the US would remain strong despite these changes.

Palmer highlighted key exports like gold and gas as vital for global trade. She noted that various goods benefit both countries economically.

In related news, other countries have also faced significant tariff increases under Trump's policies. China now faces a total duty of at least 54%. Japan and India have tariffs of 24% and 26%, respectively.

Smaller nations are also affected; Lesotho faces a hefty 50% levy on its products.