The American Chamber of Commerce and the Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce are calling on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to urgently address the smuggling of canned and PET soft drinks into Ghana from neighboring countries.
Both chambers argue that this illegal activity jeopardizes the survival of legitimate beverage producers and erodes government revenue from taxes.
In a joint statement, they highlighted that some of these smuggled beverages are sold without tax stamps and at prices well below market rates, making them accessible primarily to those avoiding customs duties, excise taxes, and other levies.
They also expressed concerns about the potential health and safety risks these smuggled products pose to consumers.
“The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) cannot verify the quality of these beverages, as they bypass established health regulatory processes. Authorised dealers and franchisees suffer reputational damage when inferior products are passed off as their own in the market”.
“We urgently call upon the GRA to take decisive action to halt the smuggling of these PET and canned beverages, particularly Coca-Cola products, which are among the most affected. We also urge the FDA, local authorities, and market leaders in major regions such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi to act decisively to protect these brands, preserve government revenue, and safeguard employment opportunities within the beverage sector”, they stated.
“Additionally, we entreat the Ministry of Trade and Industry, through the Ghana International Trade Commission (GITC), to address these unfair trade practices. This action is essential to encourage investment in Ghana’s manufacturing sector and ensure a level playing field for all businesses operating within the country”, they opined.
They emphasized that beverage smuggling into Ghana weakens legitimate businesses, diminishes government tax income, and presents potential dangers to public health and safety.
They urged all relevant parties to work together in addressing and resolving this issue efficiently.