The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has thrown its weight behind the “sit-down strike” initiated by traders in the Kumasi Metropolis of the Ashanti Region, expressing solidarity with their grievances regarding the prevailing economic challenges.
Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobert, General Secretary of the Association, underscored the significance of the traders' action as a wake-up call for the government and economic managers. He emphasized concerns over “killer taxes,” high business costs, and the depreciation of the Ghana Cedi against the dollar, stating, “We owe it a duty to ensure their businesses are protected.”
Speaking to the media in Tema, Mr. Awingobert urged the government to implement measures to address these pressing issues, particularly for the benefit of traders who are members of the IEAG. He also called on the leadership of traders' associations to intensify efforts to safeguard the interests of their members during these challenging times.
Furthermore, Mr. Awingobert encouraged traders nationwide to follow the example set by their counterparts in Kumasi, urging them to exert pressure on relevant authorities, including the economic management team, the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Finance Ministry, to address their concerns effectively.