The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has engaged with US Ambassador Virginia Palmer regarding the recent imposition of a 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports, effective April 5, 2025.
A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the tariff, which has raised concerns across key sectors, was the subject of a high-level meeting between Ambassador Palmer and Ghanaian officials on Monday, April 7, 2025.
The Ambassador responded to an invitation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to discuss the impact of the tariff and explore potential exemptions. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Sampson Ahi, along with other officials from his Ministry.
Ambassador Palmer clarified that the tariff is not intended as a punitive measure against Ghana, but rather part of a broader effort to address trade imbalances between the US and its global partners. She further explained that the tariff is being imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA).
The Ambassador also highlighted that certain Ghanaian exports, such as oil, gas, and energy-related products, would be exempt from the tariff. However, goods exported under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) would be affected, potentially impacting key sectors like cocoa and garments.
The two sides discussed the possibility of exempting additional Ghanaian exports and agreed to collaborate to address the challenges faced by businesses and the broader economy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, assured that further engagements with US authorities would continue to find ways to mitigate the impact of the tariff on Ghanaian businesses.
Both Ghana and the United States reaffirmed their strong diplomatic and trade relations.
