The Ghana Leather and Footwear Manufacturers Association has threatened to hit the streets if the government fails to reduce import duties on raw materials used by local manufacturers.

The Association says high tariffs are driving up the cost of producing footwear locally, leaving Ghanaian manufacturers at a disadvantage against imported products.

It has consequently petitioned Parliament, calling for an urgent review of the current tariff regime and stronger enforcement at the ports.

Speaking to the media after submitting the petition to the Clerk of Parliament, President of the Association, Gilbert Ntim, said the high cost of production is crippling the local leather and footwear industry, with some factories being forced to shut down.

He outlined two key demands from the government.

“Our demand to government is lower tariffs. Two, strict enforcement at the Tema Port on finished synthetic leather goods coming from China.”

Mr Ntim said the current situation risks undermining efforts to develop a sustainable local manufacturing industry.

“When the local producers don’t have room to operate, this becomes economic sabotage. Why do we sponsor our enemies to kill us? It’s like the system is not working for Ghanaian producers; it is rather favouring foreigners more than us.”

He warned that the Association would resort to street action if its concerns are not addressed.

“So, if our demands are not met, the government will hear our voices on the streets,” he said.

According to Mr Ntim, the impact extends beyond manufacturers, with artisans and young people who depend on the leather and footwear industry for employment also at risk.

He said the continued closure of factories was contributing to job losses and weakening efforts to establish a viable domestic leather and footwear manufacturing sector.

“A nation that cannot foot its people walks into the future with bare feet.”

Mr Ntim further called for stricter enforcement of existing laws to protect local manufacturers from unfair competition.

“The law must be applied vigorously to protect local producers. We are not here just to speak,” he added.

The Association is therefore urging government to urgently review import duties on raw materials and strengthen checks at the Tema Port, particularly on finished synthetic leather products.

It says the measures are necessary to reduce production costs, protect local manufacturers, safeguard jobs and ensure the survival and growth of Ghana’s leather and footwear industry.