President John Mahama is facing growing criticism following the United States government’s decision to impose a 15 percent tariff on Ghanaian exports.
The development has sparked concern among economic analysts and political leaders who fear significant damage to the country’s trade and job market.
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Member of Parliament for Afoase Ayirebi and Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, said in an interview that the Mahama administration failed to act when early signs emerged.
He argued that more direct and timely engagement with American officials might have prevented the tariff from taking effect.
“It is disappointing that despite all the signs being on the wall, we have ended up here,” he said. “We had earlier suggested that the president himself engage at the highest level, but this administration chose a different path.”
The 15 percent tariff, announced on July 31 by United States President Donald Trump, affects several African nations including Ghana, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon.
The measure took effect on August 1 and is part of a policy push aimed at correcting what US officials describe as long-standing trade imbalances and limited reciprocal access.
Ghana’s main exports to the United States include cocoa derivatives, textiles, cashews, shea butter and yams. In 2024, Ghana exported goods worth 1.2 billion US dollars to the American market.
The new tariff could reduce demand for these products or force exporters to lower prices to remain competitive.
Oppong Nkrumah warned of a ripple effect that could cost jobs and worsen inflation.
He urged the government to explore new trade partnerships, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area, to protect national export revenues.
