The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has directed all foreign nationals engaged in retail trading within the metropolis to voluntarily exit the retail space by December 9, 2025.

This move aims to restore order, ensure compliance with Ghana's trade regulations, and maintain sanity in local markets.

KMA says the directive is also intended to prevent any forceful ejection during a joint operation involving security Agencies, KMA and GUTA.

The directive follows a closed-door meeting between KMA management and the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) leadership.

In a press statement by KMA, the Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi acknowledged concerns raised by GUTA regarding foreign participation in retail trade and reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to addressing these concerns within the law.

He has therefore urged GUTA to halt its current exercise of locking up shops belonging to foreigners involved in retail trade.

As a result, a committee has been formed to oversee the process, comprising representatives from the Ghana Immigration Service, Customs Excise and Preventive Service, Ghana Police Service, KMA, Ghana Investment Promotion Council, and GUTA.

This committee will ensure a coordinated and lawful approach to implementing the directive.