The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reached out to US Ambassador Virginia Palmer regarding the recent imposition of a 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports, effective April 5, 2025. The move has raised concerns among key sectors, prompting a high-level meeting between Ambassador Palmer and Ghanaian officials on April 7, 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Palmer clarified that the tariff is not a punitive measure specifically targeting Ghana but rather a broader effort to address trade imbalances between the US and its global partners. She cited the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA) as the basis for the tariff.
“The Ambassador indicated that certain Ghanaian exports, including oil, gas, and energy-related products, would be exempted from the tariff,” the statement read. However, goods exported under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) are affected, which may impact key sectors like cocoa and garments.
Both countries discussed the possibility of exempting additional Ghanaian exports from the tariff and agreed to collaborate to address potential challenges facing businesses and the broader economy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, assured that engagements with US authorities would continue to seek ways to mitigate the effects of the tariff on Ghanaian businesses.
“We are committed to finding solutions that benefit both countries,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, along with officials from his Ministry.
The imposition of the tariff has sparked concerns about the impact on Ghana’s economy, with the Minority in Parliament urging the government to secure exemptions from the tariff.
Ghana’s exports to the US were valued at $787.79 million in 2023, with major exports including mineral fuels, cocoa and cocoa preparations, and articles of apparel.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry will continue to engage US authorities to mitigate the effects of the tariff on Ghanaian businesses.
Below is the statement issued by the Foreign Affairs Ministry after the engagement.
