The Chairman of the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association, Mr Henry Okyere, has raised serious concerns about the burden of high import duties, which he says are severely affecting the financial performance and sustainability of their businesses.
Describing the issue as pressing, Mr Okyere announced a decisive move to address the challenge. He has invited all foreign nationals involved in the spare parts business within the Abossey Okai enclave to attend an urgent meeting.
This meeting, described as crucial, is scheduled to take place with immediate urgency. Mr Okyere emphasized that if these individuals fail to attend, the association has resolved to close down their shops starting September 1st.
During a general meeting with key stakeholders, including the area’s Member of Parliament and active association members, Mr Okyere expressed deep concerns about the proliferation of table-top businesses operated by foreigners, which he claims are significantly eroding their market share.
He argued that under the current legal framework, foreign traders should not be allowed to operate or support informal retail setups, such as table-top businesses, as this undermines the efforts of established local enterprises.
His statements highlight a broader call for urgent regulatory intervention to protect local businesses and ensure a level playing field within the sector.
In support of this, the General Secretary of the Association, Mrs Gifty Lovelace Fianu, made an emotional appeal to government authorities.
She urged immediate action on import duties, citing the disconnect between the recent depreciation of the dollar and the stagnant, high duty charges.
Mrs Fianu explained that despite the falling exchange rate, import duties have remained disproportionately high, placing immense financial pressure on businesses.
While she acknowledged the government's role in stabilizing the currency, she strongly appealed for additional relief measures to reduce the cost of doing business and preserve livelihoods within the spare parts industry.
