The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) wants government to take a cue from the land border closure by Nigeria to restrict the free movement of people and goods.
The Ashanti, Ahafo, Bono East Zonal Vice-Chairman of AGI, Kwasi Nyamekye, noted that although Nigeria’s decision to close its land borders until January 2020 was unpleasant, the country was doing what all other countries do to protect their local industry.
The government of Nigeria last week extended the closure of its land borders till January 31, 2020. A memo signed by Nigeria’s Comptroller, Victor David Dimka, dated November 1, 2019, directed officers at the borders to keep them closed until next year.
The memo indicates that “despite the overwhelming success of the Operation particularly, the security and economic benefits to the nation, a few strategic objectives are yet to be achieved.
Against this background, Mr President has approved an extension of the Exercise to 31st January 2020.”
The Nigerian government began closing its borders in August in an operation they term ‘Exercise Swift Response’.
The operation, according to the government, was to check the smuggling of illegal goods into the country. The border closure, however, has affected many trade deals of its neighbours, including Ghana.
This closure has reportedly cost Ghana’s largest local beverage manufacturer, Kasapreko, $2 million. AGI said instead of worrying its head, Ghana should also take the opportunity to institute similar policies in the interests of Ghanaian businesses.
Source: Fiilafmonline/JoyNews
