Ghana Engages U.S. Diplomatically Over New 10% Tariff on Exports

The Government of Ghana, through the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, has pledged sustained diplomatic efforts to address the recently imposed 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports by the United States, which took effect on April 5, 2025.

This assurance followed a high-level meeting on April 7 between Ghanaian officials and the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia Palmer, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra.

Present at the meeting were Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Sampson Ahi, and other officials from both ministries. The engagement provided deeper insight into the rationale behind the tariff and its implications.

Ambassador Palmer clarified that the tariff was introduced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA), aiming to address global trade imbalances and not specifically targeting Ghana. However, she confirmed that exports under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) will be affected, while oil, gas, and energy-related products remain exempt.

Discussions also centered on possible sector-specific exemptions, particularly for cocoa and garments, two of Ghana’s key exports. Both sides recognized the potential economic strain and job losses the tariff could trigger, agreeing to pursue collaborative solutions to ease the burden.

The Ministries reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing diplomatic dialogue with U.S. authorities in hopes of securing relief measures for affected sectors and businesses.

Despite the current trade tension, both Ghana and the U.S. reiterated their strong bilateral ties and emphasized the importance of maintaining cooperation and mutual respect in resolving economic issues.

The Government assured the public that it remains steadfast in defending national economic interests while enhancing global trade partnerships.