By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
Tensions are rising at Abossey Okai, Ghana’s largest spare parts hub, as local traders have given foreign nationals operating in the enclave an ultimatum to vacate their shops or face forced eviction.
At a press conference on Monday, the dealers insisted that the spare parts trade is legally reserved for Ghanaians under investment laws, accusing foreign retailers of violating the rules by taking over spaces meant for locals.
One dealer cited Nigeria as an example of stricter enforcement:
“You can’t just walk into a spare parts shop in Lagos and start business. Even licensing is very expensive, so only a few can afford to trade. We also have the laws here in Ghana, but we are not using them.”
The traders expressed deep frustration, claiming they have been abandoned by leaders and associations meant to protect their interests.
“We are orphans in our own land. If I register and you cannot protect me, why should I register? Many want to join the association, but when we are in trouble, no one defends us,” another trader lamented.
They further alleged that while Ghanaian traders are regularly targeted by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), foreign traders operate with little interference.
One trader recounted how excessive tax harassment forced him out of business:
“The intimidation is unbearable, especially with VAT issues. I closed my shop five years ago, yet the GRA still keeps calling me. They never ask if I need help, but once I try to make a little capital, they come after me.”
The ultimatum comes amid growing concerns over enforcement of Ghana’s investment laws, which reserve certain categories of trade exclusively for citizens.
Authorities have yet to respond to the traders’ warning.
