Government has opted to suspend the laying in Parliament, of the Export and Import Regulations 2023 amid substantial opposition.
The Legislative Instrument (LI) is aimed at restricting the importation of 22 strategically selected goods, including rice, animal organs, poultry, oils, margarine, and fruit juices.
The decision to halt the introduction of the LI comes in response to widespread criticism from the Minority caucus in Parliament and key players in the trade industry.
Some six business organisations had earlier kicked against it.
Concerns primarily revolved around insufficient consultation and what some groups including the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have described as potential for heightened corruption under the proposed regulations.
Confirming the suspension, Minister for Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah underscored the importance of further engagement with stakeholders to align perspectives.
He emphasised the overarching goal of fostering local production for the specified goods.
“The need for collective support is crucial to enhance local production of these items.
“The aim is to ensure that all relevant stakeholders have the opportunity to express and have their views considered in this matter,” Mr. Oppong Nkrumah stated.
