FABAG Petitions President Mahama to Suspend Ghana Easy Pass Programme Amid Rising Business Costs

The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has issued a direct appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to suspend the newly introduced Ghana Easy Pass Programme, citing significant concerns over rising operational costs and consumer prices. The association expressed strong opposition to the Ghana Standards Authority’s (GSA) mandatory pre-export verification regime for imported goods, labeling it an unnecessary financial burden that contradicts the government’s stated commitment to improving the ease of doing business. FABAG argues that the programme introduces another layer of bureaucracy at a time when the private sector is already struggling with high-interest rates and escalating utility costs. Furthermore, the association contends that the new verification system is redundant because existing regulatory agencies are already equipped to ensure product quality and safety. Rather than adding new costs to the import process, FABAG suggests that the government should focus on enhancing the efficiency of these current institutions to achieve better regulatory outcomes without penalizing businesses. The association warned that the increased financial strain on importers will ultimately be passed down to the average Ghanaian consumer, exacerbating the economic challenges faced by many households. In conclusion, FABAG remains disappointed that the government is reviving a policy previously rejected by the business community and has called for immediate intervention to withdraw the programme. The association is urging the presidency to halt the implementation and instead engage in fresh, meaningful consultations with stakeholders to find more effective solutions that support the growth of the private sector while maintaining national standards.