The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is calling on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and other state security agencies to step up efforts to curb illegal imports into the country.

Chief Executive Officer of AGI, Seth Twum-Akwaboah, warned that the influx of unapproved goods is crippling local businesses and threatening Ghana’s industrial growth.

According to him, the activities of smugglers and traders who bring in goods outside official channels create unfair competition for local manufacturers who comply with tax and regulatory obligations.

“Illegal imports undermine the competitiveness of local industries, discourage investment, and ultimately derail our drive towards industrialization,” he said.

Mr. Twum-Akwaboah emphasized that stricter enforcement of border controls is necessary to safeguard jobs, protect legitimate businesses, and boost government revenue.

He made the call during Prudential Bank’s special customer seminar on the appreciation of the cedi, where stakeholders in the business community discussed the challenges and opportunities in sustaining the local currency’s gains.

The AGI has consistently advocated stronger trade enforcement measures, arguing that protecting local industries from unfair trade practices is key to strengthening Ghana’s economy.