Masud Mohammed, who was named the country’s best farmer in 2021, is appealing to the government to approach the proposed import restriction bill with caution.
He said the bill needs to be re-evaluated to deliver effective results, adding that the majority of Ghanaians are not aware of the benefits of buying locally produced goods, hence the restrictions. He emphasized the need for awareness before doing so.
The parliamentary minority fiercely opposed legislation introduced in the House of Commons by Trade and Industry Minister Kovina Tahir-Hammond last week, arguing that it would hinder the growth of many companies.
The bill’s passage would restrict imports of 22 selected items, including sugar, rice, poultry, and automobiles.
Against this backdrop, Mr. Mohammed said that the government should respond systematically as the sudden imposition of restrictive measures will cause the collapse of many businesses.
“In terms of restricting rice imports into the country, it’s a very good step in the right direction. And as farmers, we support that the government should do that, but maybe in the next five years You need to make a plan.
“This year we can say we will reduce our imports by 20% and next year we will reduce them by 40%. Then we will gradually get used to it. Make them aware of the quality and how delicious it is.”
He stressed that it would not be wise for the government to simply restrict imports completely.
“Let’s be more careful. The price of meat and food will go up and people may not be able to afford it. It should be done systematically, not once,” Mohammed said.
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