The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has raised alarms over the rising tide of illegal food imports, calling on the government to take swift and decisive action to strengthen border controls and curb food smuggling.
According to FABAG, the unchecked influx of smuggled goods is not only eroding government revenue but also undermining legitimate businesses, creating an uneven playing field for local industry players.
Speaking to the press, FABAG’s Executive Chairman, John Awuni, highlighted the severe impact of food smuggling on both the economy and domestic producers.
📢 GET A DETAILED ARTICLES + JOBS
Join ASJ's WhatsApp Channel and never miss a post or opportunity.
“Unscrupulous business people are smuggling goods across illegal borders, which has become a significant issue for the major business community. Smuggling is eroding potential government revenue, and if the government examines the revenue from certain commodities, it will realize there has been a decline,” he underscored.
Key commodities affected include sugar, rice, and cooking oil, which Awuni says are being illegally imported, avoiding taxes and undercutting local suppliers.
With Ghana facing macroeconomic pressures, the government is already under pressure to boost domestic revenue and support local industries. Analysts argue that tightening import regulations and enforcing border security will be critical in preventing further financial leakages and ensuring that local businesses remain competitive.
FABAG’s call for action comes as policymakers seek to balance trade liberalization with industry protection, ensuring that legitimate businesses are not forced out of the market due to illegal competition.
As the debate intensifies, industry stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the government responds to this growing economic and regulatory challenge.
Last Updated on March 9, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
Disclaimer: Some content on Accra Street Journal may be aggregated, summarized, or edited from third-party sources for informational purposes. Images and media are used under fair use or royalty-free licenses. Accra Street Journal is a subsidiary of SamBoad Publishing Hub under SamBoad Business Group Ltd, registered in Ghana since 2014.
For concerns or inquiries, please visit our Privacy Policy or Contact Page.
Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
