Gov’t to introduce import restrictions on rice, tripe, 18 other products

In a strategic move to fortify domestic production, the Government is set to present a Constitutional Instrument (C.I) to Parliament on Tuesday, 21 November 2023. The proposed C.I. seeks to impose restrictions on the importation of over 20 selected products, including essentials such as diapers, rice, and tripe locally referred to as “yemuadie.”

During a press briefing in Parliament, Minister of Trade and Industry, K.T Hammond, underscored the government’s commitment to fostering local production.

He justified the import restrictions, citing substantial expenditures on items like “stomach of animals, bladder, and the chunk of intestines (yemuadie),” amounting to approximately $164 million.

Mr. Hammond emphasized the necessity of ensuring an ample supply of rice in the country, clarifying that the import restrictions were not designed to induce food scarcity.

Instead, he articulated the government’s intent to revisit initiatives reminiscent of the “Operation Feed Yourself” program from the Acheampong era.

In tandem with the import restrictions, Minister Hammond announced the introduction of the Ghana Standards Authority Regulations 2023.

This regulatory framework aims to streamline the manufacturing of cement, fostering competitive pricing within the industry. The dual strategy of import restrictions and regulatory enhancements aligns with the government’s overarching vision to bolster local industries, reduce dependency on imports, and stimulate economic growth.