GUTA Commends Finance Ministry for Engaging Stakeholders Ahead of 2026 Budget
Benjamin Yeboah, Director for GUTA and Welfare, has lauded the Finance Ministry’s decision to consult key stakeholders, including the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), before the presentation of the 2026 national budget.
Speaking on Nkosuo Nsem, Mr. Yeboah described the move as a step in the right direction, emphasizing that involving the business community would ensure that the budget reflects the real concerns of Ghanaians. According to him, this is not the first time the ministry has reached out for such inputs, and the impact is often seen in the policies eventually rolled out.
He noted that one major area that requires urgent government attention is taxation at the ports. “The taxes paid at the port should be considered. If you are clearing goods and have, let’s say, 100 percent goods, you would still have to pay an additional 50 percent before clearing them. This is a huge burden on traders,” he lamented.
Mr. Yeboah further urged the government to capitalize on the recent appreciation of the cedi by implementing measures that would ease the cost of doing business. He stressed that traders have repeatedly raised concerns about high charges and their effect on pricing, which eventually impacts the consumer.
“We are pleading with the government to do something about it because we have complained severally. If the cedi is appreciating, traders and consumers alike should feel the relief,” he said.
By: Daniel(Blutut Africa)/Planbfmonline.com
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