Founder and leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP), Akwasi Addai Odike, has called on the government to use the recent 10% tariff imposed by the United States as a wake-up call to pursue economic independence through local production and homegrown policies.
His remarks follow a directive issued by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 2, 2025, invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to enforce a 10% tariff on all imports, including those from Ghana.
The U.S. government justified the measure as a response to national security concerns related to trade imbalances.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Odike emphasized the need for Ghana to shift its focus from external economies and prioritize the revival of local industries.
“Rather than pleading for tariff reductions, we should take inspiration from countries like Burkina Faso and work towards revamping our defunct industries. This is the moment to create homegrown policies, promote local products, and instill a strong ‘Made in Ghana’ mindset among citizens,” he said.
Odike further urged the government to consider increasing tariffs on non-essential imports, particularly on goods that could be produced locally.
He believes such a move would enhance technical know-how, create jobs, and boost the country’s production capacity.
“Let’s add value to our resources and invest in local production. That is the only way to secure our economic future,” he concluded.
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