US Tariff: ‘We’ll continue to talk’ – US Ambassador after meeting with Foreign Minister

The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, is open to discussions. She wants to talk with Ghanaian officials about a new 10 percent tariff. This tariff takes effect this week.

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, met with the Ambassador on Monday. They sought clarity on the tariff, which has unsettled Ghana’s private sector.

In an interview with Joy News’ Blessed Sogah, Ambassador Palmer shared her thoughts. She hopes Ghana can gain advantages over its competitors despite the tariffs.

“I had a great meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs,” she said. “We discussed how strong our relationship is and how we can improve trade relations.”

Last week, Ambassador Palmer stressed that Ghana remains an important ally. This comes amid changes in U.S. international trade relations.

The U.S. recently reversed some non-essential USAID funding to Ghana. President John Mahama warned this could impact budget allocations for the year.

Ghana faces a 10 percent levy, raising concerns about U.S.-Ghana trade relations. There are worries about long-term effects on global trade as well.

In her first media engagement since the U.S. political transition, Ambassador Palmer reaffirmed their partnership. “Ghana is a really important partner of the United States,” she stated.

She noted that support for Ghana's economic recovery continues through institutions like the World Bank and IMF. American business interests are also involved in this support.

Ambassador Palmer hinted at an upcoming major trade mission but did not provide details yet.

She emphasized that U.S.-Ghana ties are based on historical and cultural connections as well as bilateral trade relations worth around USD 3 billion.