- GUTA President calls for reduced taxes on imported goods.
- Customs officials take bribes to allow smuggled goods into markets.
- Traders see corrupt officials as "angels" due to high taxes.
- MP calls for national conversation to address corruption.
The President of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), Joseph Obeng, has called for a reduction in taxes on imported goods, citing the high costs as a major challenge for traders. According to Obeng, the taxes are excessively high, leading traders to evade them by any means possible, including bribery.
This comment comes after an investigation by JoyNews revealed customs officials taking bribes to allow traders to transport smuggled goods from neighboring countries into local markets. The bribes range from ¢20 to ¢200, and Obeng described the customs officials who aid traders as “angels” who provide a necessary favor.
Obeng emphasized that the tax system is extortionately high and unbearable, forcing traders to seek alternative means to clear their goods. He stressed the need for affordable taxes and an overhaul of the system to create an environment where customs officials can work with integrity.
Obeng noted that even those who advocate for legitimate tax payments face the same challenges and may use the same clearing agents who engage in bribery. Ranking Member on the Trade and Industry Committee of Parliament, Yusif Sulemana, believes the report reveals deep-seated corruption in the country.
Sulemana stated that when those responsible for preventing corruption are themselves involved, it emboldens others to engage in corrupt practices. He emphasized the need for a national conversation to address corruption, highlighting the severity of the issue and the need for collective action.
