Alan Kyerematen, Minister of Trade
The Ministry of Trade & Industry has directed that all affected shops or retail outlets that were closed as a result of the operations of the taskforce on retail trade should be opened with immediate effect.
The Ministry said it made the decision after extensive consultation with national executives of Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Ministry of National Security, Nigerian High Commission and other relevant institutions on the matter.
According to a release issued and signed by the Minister of Trade Alan Kyerematen, the decision was to permit the various state institutions and agencies to carry out their lawful mandate of enforcing local laws and regulations, including those related to the operation of businesses in Ghana.
“The Ministry of Trade & Industry further wishes to inform the general public that the National Committee on Retail Trade will continue to ensure that all businesses operating in the retail trade sector of Ghana are given the opportunity and support to regularise their operations and comply the laws and regulations in the country.”
“In this regard, all owners of the affected businesses and shops are requested to contact the relevant state institutions and agencies to regularise their operations as required by the various bodies under reference.”
The Ministry also assured the general public, particularly, the international community that “there is no orchestrated action by government or any other state institutions targeted at Nigerian nationals or any particular foreign nationals.”
The Ministry strongly condemned the malicious and inaccurate reportage by some media organizations, including reports in social media that foreign nationals operating businesses in Ghana are under threat.
“On the contrary, Ghanaians are internationally acknowledged as very hospitable and friendly, particularly to foreign nationals.
“The Ministry of Trade & Industry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Ghana Union of Traders Association and the Diplomatic Missions will implement a comprehensive sensitization programme to enhance collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders engaged in the retail trade sector in Ghana.”
The Ministry, therefore, encouraged the trading community in Ghana, including foreign nationals, to take all necessary steps to avoid incidents that would mar the long-standing bond of friendship between Ghana and other countries both on the continent of Africa and across the world.
A business desk report