Business operators across Ghana are calling on the government to reduce taxes and review import duties to create a more conducive environment for local enterprises.
In interviews with JoyBusiness, traders shared varied experiences of 2025. While some described the year as challenging due to high taxes, rising import costs, and weak consumer spending, others said the difficulties were manageable and their businesses had weathered the storm.
“Last year wasn’t easy. We expected improvements after the change in government and the drop of the dollar, but it didn’t translate into better business conditions,” one operator said. Another expressed optimism, noting, “There were challenges, but we overcame them, so last year wasn’t too bad for my business.”
Looking ahead to 2026, many business owners remain cautiously hopeful. They stressed that sustained macroeconomic stability and predictable government policies would be key to expanding operations, stabilising prices, and improving overall performance.
“We are praying things will be better than last year. If markets pick up and conditions improve, we can plan and grow,” one trader explained.
The private sector is appealing for more flexible tax and import duty regimes, arguing that lower taxes and stable import policies would enhance competitiveness, support business growth, and create jobs. Some traders also highlighted the impact of currency fluctuations, urging measures to stabilise the cedi against the dollar to avoid price volatility.
Business leaders emphasised that stronger collaboration between government and the private sector is essential for building resilient Ghanaian-owned businesses and driving long-term economic growth.
“The government’s support through policy predictability, fair taxation, and stable currency would go a long way in enabling local businesses to thrive,” they concluded.
