Paragraph 1: Critique of Bawumia’s Duty-Free Zone Proposal
Dr. Razak Kojo Opoku, Founding President of the UP Tradition Institute, has challenged the feasibility and originality of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s “1 Region, 1 Duty-free Zone” campaign promise. Dr. Opoku argues that the proposal is redundant, given the existing framework of duty-free zones established under the Ghana Free Zones Act 1995 (Act 504). He contends that Dr. Bawumia’s assertion that Ghana currently has only one duty-free zone in Tema is inaccurate, highlighting the presence of multiple free zones and special economic zones across the country operating under the existing legislation. This critique raises questions about the depth of understanding informing Dr. Bawumia’s policy proposals and underscores the need for thorough research and validation before public announcements.
Paragraph 2: Existing Free Zones and Special Economic Zones in Ghana
Dr. Opoku provided a comprehensive list of existing free zones and special economic zones in Ghana, demonstrating the breadth of current duty-free arrangements beyond the single Tema Free Zone cited by Dr. Bawumia. He highlighted established areas such as the Ashanti Technology Park, Sekondi Export Processing Zone, Shama Export Processing Zone, and various special economic zones like the Greater Kumasi Industrial City Project, Builsa Agro-Processing Park, West Park at Shama, and the Savelugu Industrial Park. This detailed enumeration serves to refute Dr. Bawumia’s claim and illustrates the existing infrastructure for duty-free operations across multiple regions of Ghana.
Paragraph 3: The Three Categories of Free Zones under Act 504
Expanding on the existing legal framework, Dr. Opoku explained the three distinct categories of free zones defined under the Ghana Free Zones Act 1995: Industrial Free Zones, Commercial Free Zones, and Service Free Zones. Industrial Free Zones facilitate the import of raw materials for export-oriented manufacturing, Commercial Free Zones allow for the import of general goods for processing and re-export, and Service Free Zones cater to the provision of services to companies both within and outside the free zone framework. This clarification further emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the current system, accommodating diverse business activities under the umbrella of duty-free operations.
Paragraph 4: Beyond Designated Zones: Licensed Enterprises and Duty-Free Shops
Dr. Opoku’s explanation extends beyond designated geographic zones to encompass licensed enterprises and duty-free shops operating under the national free zone framework. This clarification highlights the flexibility and wider reach of the existing system, allowing businesses outside designated zones to benefit from duty-free arrangements. By highlighting these additional provisions, Dr. Opoku strengthens his argument that Dr. Bawumia’s proposal overlooks the comprehensive scope of the current legislation.
Paragraph 5: Addressing the Real Concerns of the Business Community
Shifting the focus from duty-free arrangements, Dr. Opoku addressed the core economic challenges facing businesses in Ghana. He argued that the primary concerns of the business community revolve around macroeconomic issues like exchange rate depreciation, inflation, and high interest rates, rather than the availability of duty-free zones. He posited that tackling these fundamental economic challenges would be more impactful than simply expanding the number of duty-free zones without addressing the broader economic context.
Paragraph 6: The Need for Thorough Policy Vetting and Advice
Dr. Opoku concluded his critique with a recommendation for Dr. Bawumia to establish a robust advisory team to thoroughly vet policy proposals before public pronouncements. He suggested that a “semi-permeable team of elders and researchers” could help avoid inaccuracies and ensure the feasibility and relevance of proposed policies. This advice underscores the importance of rigorous research, consultation, and due diligence in policy formulation, especially during political campaigns, to foster credible and impactful policy discussions. This call for improved vetting processes aims to elevate the quality of political discourse and promote more informed policy-making in Ghana.
