The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has called for greater inclusivity in government-private sector engagements, questioning its absence from the recent Presidential Private Sector Dialogue convened by John Dramani Mahama.
In a statement dated February 25, 2026, the Association described its exclusion as a serious concern, noting that it is the second time in a year that it has not been invited to a high-level dialogue since President Mahama returned to office.
The IEAG recalled that after a similar omission last year, it was informed by the Presidency that the situation resulted from an administrative error. However, the recurrence, it said, makes it difficult to accept that explanation.
While commending the President’s vision of strengthening public-private partnerships and positioning Ghana as a production hub in West Africa, the Association stressed that importers and exporters are central to achieving those ambitions — particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat hosted in Accra.
The group highlighted its 11-year track record in trade policy advocacy, cross-border facilitation, and collaboration on national economic initiatives. It also pointed out that its Executive Secretary serves on the Presidential Committee on Accelerated Export Development, underscoring what it described as its technical relevance to Ghana’s trade agenda.
According to the Association, importers ensure access to critical raw materials, machinery and intermediate goods that sustain local industries, while exporters drive foreign exchange earnings, job creation and regional market expansion — key pillars for maximising the benefits of AfCFTA.
The IEAG cautioned that sidelining a core trade constituency risks weakening the spirit of inclusive dialogue required to unlock the full potential of continental trade reforms.
Although it refrained from making direct accusations, the Association expressed hope that its constructive criticism of certain government policies has not influenced its repeated exclusion. It confirmed that it has formally written to the Presidency seeking clarification.
Despite the concerns, the IEAG reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement in the national interest, stating that it will pursue a more structured approach to ensure its members’ perspectives are duly recognised in future policy discussions.
