The Agric Ministry has hinted at an amendment of the ’Export and Import- restriction of soya bean regulation 2020 (L.I 2432).'
The Legislative Instrument was enacted to check the illegal export of Soyabeans.
Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture in charge of crops, Yaw Frimpong, who disclosed this, however did not give a specific timeframe as to when the amendment will take place.
"Although there is a ban, the old law on grain supplements is going to be amended," he said on JoyFM's Super Morning Show on Monday, May 30.
He noted that in the interim, the Food and Agriculture Ministry will intensify sensitisation at the local level as part of measures to curtail the menace.
"There will be more regulatory measures to tackle this one, but for now, we have to rely on the security agencies to be able to apprehend and punish people who are engaging in this act," he said.
He noted that in spite of measures in place, smuggling of grains continues to be a challenge the country is faced with.
"We need to curtail smuggling and we all have to dialogue to find solutions to this problem. It's a collective responsibility. We will continue to educate the people in our local communities and the farmers and I am confident that we will see a major reduction in this smuggling," he said.
Government placed a temporary ban on the export of grains last year as a measure to protect the collapsing poultry industry.
Export of all grains must be accompanied by an approved export permit, duly signed by the Trade and Industry Minister.
However, the enforcement of this directive has been a challenge, giving room for the smuggling of these grains out of the country. In effect, the country loses over GHC¢166 million.
JoyNews investigations have also revealed how the complicity of immigration and customs officials, farmers, as well as poor roads in Chereponi in the North East Region, are fueling the illegal export of soya beans and other grains to Togo, Nigeria, and Benin.
Latest Stories
-
Paris 2024: Opening ceremony showcases grandiose celebration of French culture and diversity
3 hours -
How decline of Indian vultures led to 500,000 human deaths
4 hours -
Paris 2024: Ghana rocks ‘fabulous fugu’ at olympics opening ceremony
4 hours -
Trust Hospital faces financial strain with rising debt levels – Auditor-General’s report
4 hours -
Electrochem lease: Allocate portions of land to Songor people – Resident demand
5 hours -
82 widows receive financial aid from Chayil Foundation
5 hours -
The silent struggles: Female journalists grapple with Ghana’s high cost of living
5 hours -
BoG yet to make any payment to Service Ghana Auto Group
5 hours -
‘Crushed Young’: The Multimedia Group, JL Properties surprise accident victim’s family with fully-furnished apartment
6 hours -
Asante Kotoko needs structure that would outlive any administration – Opoku Nti
6 hours -
JoyNews exposé on Customs officials demanding bribes airs on July 29
6 hours -
JoyNews Impact Maker Awardee ships first consignment of honey from Kwahu Afram Plains
8 hours -
Joint committee under fire over report on salt mining lease granted Electrochem
8 hours -
Life Lounge with Edem Knight-Tay: Don’t be beaten the third time
8 hours -
Pro-NPP group launched to help ‘Break the 8’
8 hours