We Will Vote For A President Who Will Listen To The Private Sector, FABAG

The Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG) has declared its readiness to back any presidential candidate who will address the issues and challenges facing the private sector.

FABAG’s chairman, John Awuni, in a statement on Monday, February 12, expressed his frustration that the “private sector has been hit by a barrage of different taxes, with overall tax levels constantly increasing” and that his association is eager “to listen to the position of the flagbearers of the various political parties on the taxes and policies” that they have that will favour his members and boost their businesses.

The statement said the excessive taxes imposed on imports have forced businesses to explore or export through other West African countries.

“Currently, the private sector is disenchanted, with most players looking for investment opportunities in neighbouring countries such as Togo and Cote d’Ivoire. Most businesses are witnessing their working capital vanishing by the day.”

It added that members of the association are urged to vote in the upcoming elections based on the taxes and policies each presidential hopeful will offer.

“Indeed, members of our association as well as our employees will be motivated to vote based on how the various political parties pledge to address the main concerns of the private sector. The sector is the engine of growth but currently, the engine is stalling. Business-friendly government policies which constitute fuel and lubricants of a robust engine have gradually been replaced with business-killer policies. We want to know how this engine will be re-started when a new administration takes power. How the sector will be revitalized needs to be clearly outlined and documented in manifestoes.

Questions that demand the attention of those seeking the mandate of Ghanaians to govern are as follows: What will be the specific tax policies for imports, manufacturing and the Service sector? How will they make the private sector truly profitable if given the mandate? At the moment, most players, including members of our apex association in the private sector feel alienated by the government and treated as though they are criminals for asking for a relief from over-taxation. The attacks, mudslinging and harassment are discouraging. We don’t feel the backing and support of the State.”