The Cashew Traders and Exporters Association of Ghana (CTEAG) has made a passionate plea to the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, to intervene in the current market meltdown affecting the cashew industry. This appeal was made during a visit by the executives of CTEAG to the Minister’s office in Accra.
The delegation, led by the National Chairman of CTEAG, expressed deep concerns about the challenges facing the industry. They highlighted the impact of the market meltdown on their businesses and the livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians who depend on the cashew industry.
On behalf of the association, Mr. Kwabena Owusu, the National Organizer, explained that the market meltdown has resulted in Indians taking over the market, making it difficult for traders and exporters to operate profitably. They attributed this decline to various factors, including unfair market practices by Indians.
Mr. Owusu appealed to the Minister to ensure Indian nationals comply with the Legislative Instrument (LI) and laws guiding the industry. He added that this would allow Ghanaians to operate freely and create more employment opportunities for youth.
“The Indians have taken over the cashew market, and this is our major challenge. We need government intervention to ensure Indians comply with bylaws and the LI before it’s too late. Aggregator and trading activities are solely for Ghanaians, but Indians have taken over, which is very serious,” he stated.
The Minister acknowledged the importance of the cashew sector to Ghana’s economy and promised to work with stakeholders to address industry challenges. He emphasized that the cashew industry can only grow through collaboration between the government and CTEAG.
CTEAG’s plea included requests for policy interventions to regulate the market, support cashew farmers, and enhance the competitiveness of Ghana’s cashew industry globally. The association expressed optimism about the Minister’s intervention and its potential to stabilize the market and improve livelihoods.
The Minister’s office promised to follow up on CTEAG’s concerns and work towards finding sustainable solutions. This development has brought hope to the industry, with many expecting positive changes.
The cashew industry plays a significant role in Ghana’s economy, and CTEAG’s plea highlights the need for sustained support and policy interventions. The association urged the government to listen to their plea.
The Minister’s commitment to supporting the industry offers hope for a brighter future for Ghana’s cashew sector. The association’s efforts to ensure Ghanaians dominate the industry could lead to increased economic opportunities and job creation for youth.
The Minister’s intervention could lead to a more regulated industry with strict compliance to laws and regulations, benefiting the Ghanaian economy and the cashew industry.
