The President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Dr. Joseph Obeng, has urged the government to implement measures in the upcoming budget that will focus on strengthening and stabilizing the local currency.

His comments come ahead of the much-anticipated budget presentation by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, scheduled for Tuesday, March 11. The budget is expected to outline the government’s economic priorities for the coming year.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Dr. Obeng emphasized the crucial role of currency stability in ensuring broader economic health, particularly for businesses.

“The stability of the country is of utmost importance to us,” he said. “The budget must adopt measures that will strengthen and stabilise the local currency, as this is key to the nation's economic well-being.”

Dr. Obeng further explained that stabilising the local currency is essential for tackling inflation, reducing interest rates, and improving key economic indicators, particularly the exchange rate.

These factors, he noted, are integral to creating a favourable environment for businesses to thrive.

“These are the indicators that enable businesses to prosper,” he added.

"For the economy to grow and businesses to succeed, the budget must address these issues directly and effectively.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Obeng called for pragmatic solutions that would ensure long-term stability.

“We expect the government to implement practical and actionable measures that will help us maintain the stability we urgently need,” he concluded.