Smugglers Dominate Ghana’s Rice and Sugar Market, Importers Blame Government Inaction
Smugglers Take Over Ghana’s Rice and Sugar Markets Amid Government Inaction
- FABAG warns smugglers have overtaken Ghana’s rice and sugar markets, threatening legal businesses and state revenue.
- The association blames weak enforcement, bureaucratic delays, and duty gaps with neighboring countries for the surge in illegal trade.
- FABAG calls for a nationwide crackdown, digital border monitoring, and coordinated government action to dismantle smuggling networks.
Importers are raising the alarm as smugglers increasingly dominate Ghana’s rice and sugar markets, blaming government inaction for allowing illegal trade to thrive.
The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) describes the situation as “alarming,” warning that smuggling is undermining legitimate businesses and draining the state of millions of cedis in lost revenue.
According to FABAG, the problem has been escalating for months, with large quantities of rice and sugar entering the country through unapproved routes, particularly at Aflao and Elubo. The Association claims that smuggled goods have “virtually taken over” the market, pushing legal importers to the brink.
FABAG attributes the surge in smuggling to weak enforcement, bureaucratic delays, and a significant duty gap between Ghana and neighbouring countries, which encourages traders to bypass official channels.
The Association is calling for immediate government action, including:
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Formation of a nationwide task force to dismantle smuggling networks.
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Overhaul of border operations and installation of digital monitoring systems at key entry points.
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Public disclosure of enforcement results to ensure accountability.
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Coordinated efforts by the Trade Ministry, National Security, and Border Patrol units.
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Review of taxes and tariffs to make legal compliance easier for importers.
FABAG warns that without decisive intervention, the formal food import sector could collapse, local rice producers will be negatively affected, and the government will continue to lose vital revenue.
The Association insists that smuggling is a form of economic sabotage and urges strong, transparent enforcement to protect Ghana’s economy, public health, and future food security. FABAG pledges to continue advocating for a fair and accountable trade environment.
