Kumasi: The Ghana Union of Traders' Associations (GUTA) has issued a warning to Ghanaian traders about fronting for foreign nationals engaged in retail trade, highlighting the potential for serious consequences under the new Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) law.
According to Ghana Web, GUTA President Clement Boateng emphasized that the new law includes provisions specifically targeting the practice of Ghanaian traders allowing foreign nationals to operate using their names and businesses in the retail sector. Boateng urged traders involved in such arrangements to cease these activities, as enforcement operations are set to resume to ensure compliance with the law by foreign traders.
During the 10th National Executive Tour of GUTA in Kumasi, Boateng addressed the issue, noting its prevalence across all regional engagements, including those in the Northern and Bono regions. He stated that the concern of foreigners operating in Ghana's retail trade has been consistently raised.
GUTA has engaged with the Chief Executive Officer of the GIPC, who has promised collaboration with the association to tackle the issue. Boateng highlighted that previous enforcement efforts were hindered by a lack of support from some security agencies and local government authorities. Consequently, the GIPC CEO has invited police, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), District Chief Executives, and immigration authorities to strategize on future enforcement operations.
Boateng warned that any Ghanaian found fronting for a foreign trader would face legal consequences when the enforcement exercise resumes. He stressed the importance of support from all involved agencies to resolve the situation and allow Ghanaian traders to operate freely.