The government of Ghana has opted to suspend the implementation of the Export and Import Regulations 2023 Bill amid substantial opposition.

The legislative instrument aimed to restrict the importation of 22 strategically selected goods, including rice, animal organs, poultry, oils, margarine, and fruit juices.

The decision to halt the bill's introduction comes in response to widespread criticism from the Minority caucus in Parliament and key players in the trade industry.

Some six businesss organisations had earlier kicked against it.

Concerns primarily revolved around insufficient consultation and the potential for heightened corruption under the proposed regulations.

Confirming the suspension, Minister of Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah underscored the importance of further engagement with stakeholders to align perspectives. 

He emphasised the overarching goal of fostering local production for the specified goods.

"The need for collective support is crucial to enhance local production of these items," Mr Oppong Nkrumah said, adding: "The aim is to ensure that all relevant stakeholders have the opportunity to express and have their views considered in this matter".