The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed concerns over the Import Restrictions Bill proposed by the government through the Minister of Trade and Industry.

According to Mr Ayariga, the bill infringes upon certain provisions outlined in the government's agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The legislator contends that if the bill is presented in Parliament, it could jeopardise the existing deal between the government and the IMF, a critical aspect of the country's financial commitments.

Mahama Ayariga, who once served as Minister of Information and Media Relations, questioned whether the Minister of Trade, K.T. Hammond, had consulted with his counterpart in the Finance Ministry before pursuing such a legislation.

He suggested that the lack of coordination within the government reflects a state of confusion, portraying the administration as being disorganised and lacking a cohesive approach.

“The proposed Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Selected Strategic Products) Regulations, 2023 offends clear provisions of the IMF Bailout Agreement.” he said in a press statement issued on Wednesday, November 29.

Already, six business associations have also submitted a petition to Parliament urging the house to reject the bill.

• Read also: Don’t pass import restrictions bill – GUTA, 5 other groups petition Parliament

The Joint Business Consultative Forum, comprising the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), argue that the bill if enacted, would have detrimental effects on their businesses.

The petition, dated Sunday, November 26, outlined concerns that the legislation could negatively impact the prices of goods, disrupt the free flow of goods, and potentially harm businesses.

The Minister for Trade and Industry is seeking to pass an (L.I) to restrict the importation of some strategic products.

The 22 items considered for import restrictions are:

1. Rice
2. Guts, bladders and stomachs of animals (offal)
3. Poultry
4. Animal and vegetable oil
5. Margarine
6. Fruit juices
7. Soft drink
8. Mineral water
9. Noodles and pasta
10. Ceramic tiles
11. Corrugated paper and paper board
12. Mosquito coil and insecticides
13. Soaps and detergents
14. Motor cars
15. Iron and steel
16. Cement
17. Polymers (Plastics and Plastic Products)
18. Fish
19. Sugar
20. Clothing and apparel
21. Biscuits
22. Canned tomatoes