The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is asking government not to touch pension funds of industrial workers as part of its Debt Exchange programme.

According to the association, such a move will worsen the plight of industrial workers who have been instrumental in the industrial growth of the country.

The Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta recently announced a Debt Exchange Programme which is expected to affect institutional bond holders as part of conditions for a deal with the International Monetary Fund.

President of the AGI, Humphrey Ayim-Darke made the call when speaking at the maiden National Conference by the Ghana International Trade Commission on enhancing competitiveness of domestic industry in Accra.

He also urged the commission to ensure a fair domestic trade in the country.

“We want to urge government not to touch the pension package of our workers. Industry is very important for national growth and I don’t think it will be proper to cut the pension funds of industrial workers in this critical times”, he said.

Mr. Ayim-Darke stated that the position espoused reflect the sentiments of industrial workers across the country.

“If the government does not listen to us, it will create further contraction and also worsen the case for the employees that we employ under industry”.

“Upon this, I urge the GITC not to relent in this committee to promoting fair trade practices and we look forward to deepen our collaboration with the GITC in the interest of our local economy”, he said.

The Conference was held in collaboration with the AGI, and the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).

The Executive Secretary of the Ghana International Trade Commission, Frank Agyekum used the platform to explain the various mandates of the Commission to participants and assured them of all the necessary support to make domestic industries competitive.