The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has issued a stark warning, threatening to mobilise nationwide protests unless the government strictly enforces the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act, 2013 (Act 865), which prohibits foreigners from participating in retail trade.
The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has renewed its call for strict enforcement of the GIPC Act, particularly Section 27(1)(a), which bars foreign nationals from engaging in retail activities unless they meet specific investment criteria.
GUTA accuses state agencies of failing to enforce this law, resulting in the proliferation of foreign retailers, mainly from China and Nigeria who now control nearly 40% of key retail hubs like China Mall and China Town.
This, according to GUTA, has led to the displacement of local traders, increased operating costs, weakened local production, and currency depreciation due to forex outflows.
GUTA has petitioned the GIPC and the Trade Ministry, demanding a reaffirmation of the US$1 million capital requirement for foreign-owned retail operations and immediate eviction of violators.
It insists that enforcement must be coordinated across regulatory bodies, including the GIPC, GRA, Immigration Service, and local assemblies.
The group emphasizes that Ghana’s legal framework takes precedence over ECOWAS protocols, particularly when local economic sovereignty is at stake.
Previously, GUTA has threatened nationwide protests, most notably in 2021 when parliament considered easing foreign trader requirements.
The group warns that continued inaction could spark a national shutdown, disrupt retail supply chains, and trigger broader economic unrest.
Government response, including possible parliamentary debate and regulatory enforcement, will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
By: J.W. Quarm
