Wendy Shay Urges President Akufo-Addo To Address Outrageous Import Duties
Renowned Ghanaian singer and multiple award-winner, signed under Rufftown Records, Wendy Shay has taken to social media to appeal directly to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, calling for urgent action on the issue of exorbitant import duties in Ghana. The singer expressed concern over the high import duties, particularly on cars, and called on the president to address the situation.
In a tweet directed at President Akufo-Addo, the singer expressed admiration for the president’s dedication to the welfare of Ghanaians while highlighting the need for intervention in the area of import duties. The artist drew attention to the staggering contrast between the cost of purchasing a car in the United States and the exorbitant duties imposed when importing it into Ghana.
Your excellency @NAkufoAddo Mr president, I know you have the welfare of Ghanaians at heart but can you please do something about import duties especially on cars? The import duties on cars are way Outrageous . You buy a car in the US for $35,000 (397,707.10 Cedis) and pay…
— Enigma EP (@wendyshaygh) July 3, 2023
Citing an example, the singer highlighted that a car purchased for $35,000 in the US would attract an import duty of $30,000, which amounts to a staggering 340,891.80 Cedis. Such exorbitant duties, the singer argued, are prohibitive and place an undue burden on Ghanaians who aspire to own vehicles.
Import duties are a common measure implemented by countries to protect domestic industries and generate revenue for the government. While they serve a purpose, excessive duties can hinder economic growth and limit access to goods and services. The Ghanaian singer’s appeal reflects a growing sentiment among citizens who feel the burden of high import duties.
Ghana, a country with a burgeoning middle class and a rapidly expanding economy, would benefit from a comprehensive review of import duties, especially on cars. The reduction of excessive import duties could stimulate economic activity, enhance mobility, and improve the overall quality of life for Ghanaians.
President Akufo-Addo, known for his commitment to the development of Ghana, has an opportunity to address this issue and alleviate the burden on citizens. The appeal from the singer underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers the country’s economic interests while ensuring that import duties do not become an impediment to progress.
As Ghanaians eagerly await the response from President Akufo-Addo, it is hoped that the government will take the concerns of citizens into consideration and initiate measures to alleviate the burden of import duties. A comprehensive review of the current import duty structure, especially on cars, could promote economic growth, encourage entrepreneurship, and improve the standard of living for Ghanaians.
