The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Evelyn Palmer, has minimized worries regarding the possible effects of the newly imposed 10% tariff on Ghanaian exports, which is part of a broader change in U.S. trade policy.
This tariff is included in a comprehensive set of measures introduced by President Donald Trump, which also features a 34% tax on imports from China and a 20% tariff on goods from the European Union.
These policies have intensified global trade tensions and elicited varied responses from international leaders.
In a statement from the Rose Garden, President Trump defended the tariffs as a response to a national economic emergency, claiming they are essential for safeguarding domestic manufacturing and rectifying what he characterized as years of unfair economic practices.
In light of the rising concerns, Ambassador Palmer aimed to reassure Ghanaians about the robustness of the U.S.-Ghana trade relationship, which surpasses $3 billion in bilateral trade and investment.
She expressed her belief that Ghana’s primary exports, including gold and gas, would continue to play a vital role in global trade and would not be significantly impacted by the new tariffs.
“The life-saving programs will continue. The new partnership will uphold all of the life-saving initiatives. The U.S. and Ghana share a very warm and close relationship, which is built on four key pillars.
“We have historical and cultural ties. Additionally, the over $3 billion in bilateral trade investment is a fundamental pillar. There are also goods and services involved; gold and gas are exported from here, and we import automobiles and pharmaceuticals from the United States.
“This relationship fosters prosperity in both nations. It is important to emphasize that regardless of changes in language or focus, Ghana remains a significant partner for the United States, and that will not change,” she remarked.
Palmer’s comments are intended to underscore the lasting nature of the U.S.-Ghana partnership amidst ongoing transformations in global trade policies.
