By: Hannah Dadzie
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has engaged the US Ambassador Virginia Palmer over the recent imposition of a 10% tariff by the US on Ghanaian exports, effective April 5, 2025.
A statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the move, which has raised concerns among key sectors, was the focus of a high-level meeting involving Ambassador Palmer Ghanaian officials on Monday April 7, 2025
The Ambassador honored an invitation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to discuss the impact of the tariff and explore possible exemptions. Also in attendance was the Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, along with officials from his Ministry.
According to the statement, Ambassador Palmer clarified that the tariff is not a punitive measure specifically targeting Ghana, but rather a broader effort to address trade imbalances between the US and its global partners. She indicated that the tariff is being imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA).
The Ambassador also stated that certain Ghanaian exports including oil, gas, and energy-related products — would be exempted from the tariff. However, it was revealed that goods exported under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) are affected, which may impact key sectors like cocoa and garments.
Both countries discussed the possibility of exempting additional Ghanaian exports from the tariff and agreed to collaborate to address potential challenges facing businesses and the broader economy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, assured that engagements with US authorities would continue to seek ways to mitigate the effects of the tariff on Ghanaian businesses.
Ghana and the United States reaffirmed their strong diplomatic and trade relations.
Statement Below:
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