The Deputy National Communication Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Ako Gunn, has stated that the government’s food importation ban aims to address systemic revenue leakages.
Speaking on Angel TV’s “Anopa Bofoo” programme, which also broadcasts live on Angel 102.9 FM on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, he highlighted the significant issue of smuggling in the country, which fosters unhealthy competition.
He pointed out that some importers intentionally route their goods through countries like Togo and the Ivory Coast to evade taxes, even though the Takoradi and Tema ports are available.
He emphasised that while port fees are limited to service charges, many importers misrepresent their intended destinations to avoid tax payments.
“The moment you do that, you have evaded tax. Tax cannot be taken from you because the anticipation is that when you get to Burkina, they will take tax on the goods, as you cannot be taxed twice,” he stated.
He highlighted that this practice creates unfair competition, as those evading taxes can sell food items, such as rice, at lower prices compared with compliant importers.
He underscored the importance of tax revenue, stating, “This is one of the things that we want to avoid, invasion of taxes. And one significant thing that we should all appreciate is that the primary source of revenue for every government, every nation, is taxes.”
Source: Bertina Ofosu
