Business News of Wednesday, 2 April 2025
Source: www.ghanawebbers.com
Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, criticized the reintroduction of the Special Import Levy. He called it a betrayal of Ghanaians' trust.
On Wednesday, March 26th, he expressed his disappointment in Parliament. This was during the approval of the 2025 budget estimates. He said the Finance Minister's decision adds unnecessary burdens on businesses and citizens.
Dr. Amin Adam noted that the economy is already struggling. “This government promised to ease financial pressure,” he stated. “Yet here we are with a tax policy that does the opposite.”
He argued that reinstating the levy goes against previous government assurances. The government had promised to find alternative revenue sources instead of imposing more taxes.
He warned that importers would suffer most from this policy. This could lead to higher prices for goods and more economic hardship for everyone.
Dr. Amin Adam also accused the Finance Minister of lacking transparency in fiscal management. He pointed out there was no consultation with stakeholders before making this decision.
“It is unacceptable to force such a critical policy change without engaging industry players,” he said.
In response, the Finance Minister defended reintroducing the levy. He claimed it was necessary to stabilize revenue and support key government programs.
He assured that measures would be taken to protect vulnerable groups from its effects. Despite this, Dr. Amin Adam remained unconvinced.
He urged fellow legislators to reject this policy for economic fairness and sustainability.