Plastic manufacturers suspend protest following Gov’t negotiations on 5% excise tax
The Ghana Plastic Manufacturers’ Association (GPMA) and its allies have suspended plans for a protest and production shutdown following constructive discussions with the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
The GPMA, along with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), the National Association of Sachet & Packaged Water Producers (NASPAWAP), the Food & Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG), and the Plastic Sellers Association of Ghana (PSAG), met with Deputy Trade Minister, Michael Okyere Baafi, on Friday, July 5.
The talks focused on the contentious 5% excise tax on locally manufactured plastic products.
Deputy Minister Baafi demonstrated a conciliatory stance, assuring the associations that he would spearhead further dialogue with the government and initiate procedures to suspend the tax’s implementation.
In light of these assurances, the GPMA and its partners have called off their planned demonstration slated for 10th July 2024 and have put on hold any plans to halt production.
This development has been met with cautious optimism within the sector, which had been bracing for significant disruption.
The associations extended their gratitude to Deputy Minister Baafi for his intervention, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue to foster a favorable business environment.
The GPMA’s move is expected to stabilize the sector temporarily, although stakeholders will closely monitor the government’s follow-through on its commitments.
