The recent notice of withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has disrupted some trade activities of some Ghanaian Cross-Border Traders. Though not critically yet, the situation is one that is being monitored given its broader implications to Ghana’s transit and northern trade economy.
A handful of traders, who primarily export items like veneer and wood products to Burkina Faso suspended trading activities in response to the notification of withdrawal from the ECOWAS. This decision stems from their concerns about the potential risks and uncertainties associated with continued trade activities amidst the pending withdrawal. The fear of losing their goods due to possible disruptions in trade regulations, customs procedures, and border controls led to the temporary halt of export operations.
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) gathered this information during its first-quarter 2024 routine Shipper Visitation and Outreach exercise in the Bono Region.
One of such export companies compelled to suspend their exports to Burkina Faso is Asuo Bomosadu Timber and Sawmill Ltd.
The GSA team, led by Mr. John B.A Glover, the Kumasi Branch Manager, interacted with Mr. Prince Okyere, the Export Officer of Asuo Bomosadu Timber and Sawmill Ltd who confirmed that exports had been halted due to political instability in Burkina Faso, a key region for their exports.
He explained that his company has been compelled to suspend export activities until the situation stabilizes and trade relations are clarified.
Mr. Glover clarified that GSA had sought clarity from The Ministry of Transport via Ministry of Foreign Affairs that although an official notification of withdrawal may be in motion, trade engagements with the three (3) Member States remains unchanged as ECOWAS continues to employ various efforts such as dialogue, negotiation, and mediation to resolve the situation.
The Branch Manager and the Acting Commander of the GRA – Customs Division, Sunyani
He also added that according to Article 91 of the 1993 ECOWAS Revised Treaty; member states may continue to comply with the provisions and be bound to discharge their obligations until the expiration of the one-year window which allows for a withdrawal including article 50 of the Treaty on Trade Promotion. Mr. Glover encouraged Asuo Bomosadu Timber and Sawmill Ltd to resume export activities to enable them to operate a cost-effective export business. The company indicated that they will reconsider their stance and would resume operations in due course.
Consequently, GSA, led by its Chief Executive has also visited and communicated same to the various BOSEC committees at the Northern border.
To further demonstrate that business is currently ongoing as usual, representatives of the Management of GSA visited Burkina Faso from 27th – 29th February 2024 to participate in the Transport and Logistics AFRICA conference.
