Six business associations, collectively known as the Joint Business Consultative Forum, have submitted a petition to Parliament expressing their opposition to the proposed import restrictions bill.

The associations include 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).

Tensions escalated last Friday when the Legislative Instrument (LI) was presented in Parliament, facing opposition from the Minority.

The Minority contended that if passed, the LI would disproportionately benefit a specific faction of the New Patriotic Party.

The proposed restrictions, if enacted, would impact the importation of items such as ‘Yemuadie’ (tripe), rice, diapers, and other products. In their petition, the six business associations argued that the passage of the LI would have adverse effects on the prices of goods, hinder the free flow of goods, and potentially cripple businesses.

Consequently, they are urging Parliament to reject the bill.