GITC Proposes Import Restrictions on Machete To Save Local Industry
Import limitations on machetes have been recommended by the Ghana International Trade Commission (GITC), with effect from March 2024.
This ruling follows a petition that a local manufacturer, Crocodile Machets Company, filed, charging unfair trade practices by some exporters of machetes.
After conducting a thorough investigation and hearing, the Commission suggested corrective actions to resolve market imbalances and determined that the petitioner's accusations of unfair treatment had substance. The petition was filed in 2021 by Crocodile Machets Ghana Limited as a result of the increase in fake machetes that were flooding the Ghanaian market at reduced costs.
The GITC brought attention to a sharp increase in machete imports that was seriously hurting the home market.
Chairman of the Commission, Nana Adu Gyamfi, disclosed that a 65% quota on machete imports has been suggested for the next two years to rebalance the market dynamics.
He stated, "The 65% quota equates to 1534.4 metric tonnes compared to the current 2,365.85 metric tonnes imported annually. Crocodile Machets will need to compensate for the remaining 831.45 metric tonnes to enhance competitiveness and regain market share."
Sjoerd Grueter, Managing Director of Crocodile Machets Company Limited, welcomed the decision, expressing optimism about the company's resurgence.
The issues of counterfeiting and standards raised in the petition have been forwarded to relevant national regulators for further action.
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