Smuggling of canned, PET packaged beverages: AMCHAM, Spain-Ghana Chamber seek urgent action 

The American Chamber of Commerce and the Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, have urged the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), specifically its Customs Division, to treat with urgency credible reports from its members in the beverage manufacturing sector regarding the smuggling of canned and PET soft drinks from neighbouring countries into Ghana.

“This illegal activity threatens the survival of legitimate beverage manufacturers and undermines government revenue through taxation. 

“Some of these beverages are offered for sale without tax stamps and at prices significantly below prevailing market rates, making them accessible only to those who evade necessary customs duties, excise taxes, and other levies,” they said in a joint statement issued in Accra on Tuesday.

Aside from the illegality, the chambers also noted that smuggling these products raises serious health and safety concerns for consumers. 

“The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) cannot verify the quality of these beverages, as they bypass established health regulatory processes. 

“Authorised dealers and franchises suffer reputational damage when inferior products are passed off as their own in the market,” they added.

Against this background, the chamber reiterated the urgent call on the GRA to take decisive action to halt the smuggling of PET and canned beverages, particularly Coca-Cola products, which are among the most affected. 

“We also urge the FDA, local authorities and market leaders in major regions such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi to act decisively to protect these brands, preserve government revenue and safeguard employment opportunities within the beverage sector.

“Additionally, through the Ghana International Trade Commission (GITC), we entreat the Ministry of Trade and Industry to address these unfair trade practices. This action is essential to encourage investment in Ghana's manufacturing sector and ensure a level playing field for all businesses operating within the country,” they said.

According to them, the smuggling of beverages into Ghana not only undermined legitimate businesses and government revenue but also posed risks to consumer health and safety, adding that; “It is imperative that all stakeholders collaborate to combat this issue effectively.”