Gold-for-Oil: Policy to lead to further decline in fuel price, says Bawumia
Vice President, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, has announced the implementation of the Gold-for-Oil policy, describing it as a game changer that will push fuel prices down. The policy is on course to achieve its overall objective of reducing the prices of fuel and easing the pressure on the country’s forex reserve. The Gold-for-Oil policy represents a significant macroeconomic policy intervention aimed at addressing the exchange rate depreciation, fuel prices, food prices, and inflation nexus that Ghana has faced.
The Gold-for-Oil policy is the first of its kind in Ghana since independence, signaling the government’s commitment to introducing innovative policies to address the country’s balance of payment crisis. The policy’s primary objective is to reduce the pressure on Ghana’s forex reserve by allowing Ghana to pay for crude oil imports with gold instead of foreign currency. The policy is expected to improve Ghana’s foreign exchange position, which has been a major challenge for the country in recent years.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the policy’s significance in reducing fuel prices, which have been a major concern for Ghanaians due to their impact on transportation costs, food prices, and inflation. The policy has already led to a decline in fuel prices from ¢23 per liter to around ¢12 per liter, providing relief to consumers and businesses alike. The Vice President explained that the stability in the exchange rate that the policy has brought about has also contributed to the reduction in fuel prices.
The success of the Gold-for-Oil policy is a testament to the coordinated efforts of various government agencies, including the Ministry of Energy, BOST, NPA, the Bank of Ghana, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the PMMC. These agencies have worked together to ensure the smooth implementation of the policy, which has been welcomed by Ghanaians.
The Gold-for-Oil policy represents a significant milestone for Ghana’s economy, signaling the government’s commitment to introducing innovative policies to address the country’s challenges. The policy’s success in reducing fuel prices and stabilizing the exchange rate is a testament to the coordinated efforts of various government agencies. The policy’s impact on Ghana’s foreign exchange position is expected to provide long-term benefits to the country’s economy, creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and for the government to achieve its development objectives.
