President John Dramani Mahama has confirmed that Ghana is actively engaging the United States government to address a 15% tariff recently imposed on Ghanaian exports.
The tariff, introduced under an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump on July 31, has raised concerns among Ghanaian exporters and economic policymakers.
Speaking at the swearing-in of newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners in Accra on Wednesday, October 1, President Mahama said negotiations are also focused on the potential renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)—a U.S. trade program that previously allowed eligible African countries, including Ghana, to export goods duty-free.
“Negotiations are ongoing regarding the 15% tariff and the renewal of AGOA, which provided zero percent tariffs on qualifying African exports,” the President stated.
AGOA, enacted in 2000, expired on September 30, 2025, after enabling Ghana to export over US$340 million worth of goods duty-free. Sectors most affected by the tariff include cocoa products, textiles, gold jewelry, cashew, and shea butter.
President Mahama expressed optimism that continued diplomatic engagement would lead to a favorable resolution.
