Govt assures swift action on U.S. tariffs to safeguard trade, investment

The government has reiterated its commitment to tackling the recently imposed 10% universal tariffs by the United States on imports from Ghana and other countries.

The U.S. announced on April 2, 2025, that a 10% tariff would be applied universally on imports from all nations, including Ghana, effective April 5, 2025. However, goods already in transit before the effective date will be exempt. In addition to the universal tariffs, reciprocal tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% will take effect on April 9, 2025, targeting over 50 countries.

The tariffs, imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA), are said to address economic and national security concerns arising from the U.S.’s global trade deficits.

In a statement issued on Saturday, April 5, Ghana’s Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry assured the private sector, especially exporters and investors, of the government’s swift response to the situation.

“The Ministry, as a matter of urgency, is also engaging relevant stakeholders to determine the extent of the effect and assess the full impact of the US tariffs on the country’s economy. Furthermore, various strategies are under consideration to mitigate the immediate impact on Ghana’s trade,” the statement said.

The Ministry highlighted that many Ghanaian exports to the U.S. currently benefit from duty-free, quota-free access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a non-reciprocal preferential trade agreement for eligible African countries.

“The Executive Order specifically exempts certain products from the universal and reciprocal tariffs. These products include copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber articles, energy and energy products, and certain critical minerals,” it added.

It also noted that the U.S. remains a vital destination for Ghana’s key exports, including apparel, cocoa derivatives, gold jewelry, shea butter, fruits, vegetables, yams, and cashews.

To ensure minimal disruption and maintain investor confidence, the Ministry said:

“The government is committed to ensuring that the private sector is well-informed on the details of the imposition to avoid trade disruption as well as ensure predictability of investment decisions in the country.”

As an immediate measure, the Ministers of Trade, Agribusiness & Industry, Finance, and Foreign Affairs are scheduled to engage the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana on Monday, April 7, 2025.