Bawumia Will Scrap Proposed $300 Used-Car Inspection Fee If Elected — Okyere Baafi

Former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to abolish the proposed $300 inspection charge on imported used vehicles if elected president in 2028, according to Michael Okyere Baafi.

Baafi said the assurance was given during a recent meeting with representatives of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), Citi Newsroom reported on Friday. (citinewsroom.com⁠)

The proposed Ghana Standards Authority pre-shipment verification requirement has been suspended. However, the Minority is demanding its complete withdrawal, arguing that a suspension leaves open the possibility of its reintroduction.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday, October 8, Baafi, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Trade and Industry Committee, said the reported $300 charge would add to the financial burden facing vehicle importers.

He argued that buyers would ultimately bear the additional expense through higher vehicle prices, as importers would pass the cost on to consumers. (myjoyonline.com⁠)

“The policy will not come back when the NPP assumes office,” Baafi said, according to Citi Newsroom.

He maintained that Bawumia’s commitment was to scrap the proposed arrangement entirely should he win the next presidential election. (citinewsroom.com⁠)

Baafi also cited traders’ complaints about port congestion, taxes and other charges, questioning the introduction of another payment alongside existing import duties.

He said the Minority would continue pressing for permanent withdrawal of the requirement. The pledge attributed to Bawumia concerns a future administration; it does not change the policy’s current suspended status. (myjoyonline.com⁠)