Tackle the bureaucracy, hindering smooth operation of businesses

Kumasi, June 30, GNA - Mr Frederick Y. Alipui, Vice Chairman of the Accra Chapter of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), has called for firm measures to tackle the bureaucracy that was making it difficult for smooth operation of their members.

He said although they were operating in a liberalized market, they were being frustrated by some government agencies.

He alleged that the activities and conduct of some officials of the Ghana Standard Board, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Police, Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) and the Veterinary Service were a bother.

Mr Alipui was speaking at the opening session of a two-day workshop for members of the Kumasi Chapter of the GNCCI.

It was meant to provide a platform to assist them to identify business opportunities and best practices for optimal performance.

It was on the theme: “Enhancing the capacity of the Ghanaian Private Sector, particularly, the Members of GNCCI to Increase their Trade with Neighbouring Countries.”

The European Union (EU) provided the sponsorship through ECOWAS and the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Mr Alipui appealed to the government to do more to encourage the people to take advantage of the sub-regional trade.

Ghana's share of just between 11 and 15 percent of the ECOWAS trade needed to improve.

Mr Ofosu Yeboah, Ashanti Regional Executive Secretary, said the workshop could not have come at a better time to take stock of the GNCCI activities as it marked its Golden Jubilee.

He urged members to work hard to improve their contribution to the growth of the nation's economy.

Nana Yaw Owusu Akwanuasa, Chairman of the Ashanti Regional Chapter of GNCCI, appealed for the completion of the Boankra Inland Port to ensure free movement of goods.

The participants called for reduction in charges on documentation of export products under the GC-Net, something they said was becoming a burden on business operators.

GNA