Mahama Vows Tough Action Against Smuggling to Protect Ghanaian Businesses

John Dramani Mahama has pledged a decisive crackdown on smuggling, under-declaration of imports, counterfeit goods and the re-packaging of substandard products, warning that such activities pose a serious threat to Ghana’s industrial growth.

Speaking at the Presidential Dialogue with the Private Sector in Accra, the President described these illegal trade practices as economic sabotage and stressed that they will no longer be treated as minor regulatory violations but as major economic crimes that weaken local businesses, destroy jobs and reduce government revenue.

He explained that the continued influx of smuggled and fake goods distorts the domestic market and places legitimate manufacturers at a disadvantage. Companies that evade import duties or introduce inferior products, he said, undermine fair competition while depriving the state of vital tax income.

To combat the problem, President Mahama announced a coordinated national strategy that includes tighter border controls, stronger collaboration among customs, security and regulatory agencies, and the use of advanced technology to monitor imports and prevent revenue losses.

He also warned that any public officials found aiding illegal trade activities will face prosecution.

In addition, the government will strictly enforce product quality standards to prevent the circulation and re-branding of inferior goods. The President emphasized that Ghana’s goal of building a strong and competitive industrial sector depends on protecting local producers from unfair trade practices.

He assured the private sector of government’s commitment to creating a fair business environment where compliant companies can grow, invest and expand production.

“We cannot ask our manufacturers to scale up while we allow the market to be undermined by illegality,” he stated, stressing that safeguarding local industries remains central to Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda.