Trade Minister K.T. Hammond defends import restrictions amid legislative instrument suspension
In a firm response to critics, Ghana’s Trade and Industry Minister, K.T Hammond, has staunchly defended the government’s decision to suspend the Import Restriction Legislative Instruments (LIs) designed to restrict the importation of some select items. Mr Hammond dismissed detractors as hypocrites and asserted that the policy aims to bolster the nation’s economy, rather than disadvantage businesses.
Speaking at the 12th AGI Industry and Quality Awards, Minister Hammond articulated the government’s strategic vision for a robust economy that benefits all sectors. Contrary to accusations of intentional scarcity, he positioned the import restrictions bill as integral to supporting local production, particularly in alignment with the One District One Factory initiative.
“A robust economy must be built, we cannot build the economy the way we are doing things. I am not a thief that’s why we are doing this. The bill is not there for anyone to benefit. We started the One District One Factory and we must go through with our import restriction and local production initiative”.
“You guys [politicians] are telling the whole world that K.T Hammond intends to create starvation. I know very well we do not have enough production capacity and storage capacity but I do not intend to ban but to restrict and in the process to support local production. This initiative will never cause starvation in this country. Those hypocrite politicians, which I am not one, should know I do not intend to create a shortage in this country”, he remarked.
The suspended Legislative Instruments, which sought to compel importers of 22 restricted items to seek licenses, have generated considerable controversy. Minister Hammond, however, asserted that the Import Restriction Bill went through meticulous legislative processes, dismissing accusations as baseless.
The Minister’s robust defense comes amid growing calls for clarity on the government’s economic policies, with a particular focus on the impact of import restrictions. The controversy surrounding the suspension of LIs adds to the broader discourse on the efficacy of governmental measures in fostering economic growth and supporting local industries.
The unfolding dialogue surrounding these measures indicates a delicate balancing act for the government, navigating between fostering local industry growth and responding to the concerns of critics who fear potential adverse effects on supply chains and consumer access.
