By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
The President of the Spare Parts Dealers Association, Clement Boateng, has asserted that claims of neglect towards local traders are unfounded.
During an interview on the GTV Breakfast Show on September 9, 2025, Boateng emphasized the association’s commitment to enforcing trade regulations, while criticizing the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) for its lackluster enforcement efforts.
“Whoever says we haven’t done much is not telling the truth,” Boateng stated. He highlighted the association’s ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with local laws, stating, “As a responsible association, we have done our best. But enforcement doesn’t lie in our hands.”
Boateng’s comments come in the wake of growing concerns about foreign traders operating in contravention of local laws. He stated that various task forces have been established to maintain order in the retail market, but their efforts often fall short. “When they go to the market, they enforce the law for a while, and then they stop and relax. And then these foreigners start regrouping again,” he lamented.
As a leader within the spare parts industry, Boateng also addressed the impact of currency fluctuations on pricing. “In the early part of this year, from March, we started adjusting prices due to the appreciation of the Cedi. Everybody was thinking it was good,” he explained. However, he expressed concern over the recent depreciation of the Cedi, stating, “It’s our prayer that the Cedi will bounce back so that everybody in this country, as a consumer, can benefit from whatever they buy.”
Looking ahead, Boateng revealed plans for a meeting with leaders of foreign traders, including Nigerian traders. “We’ll engage them this morning,” he confirmed. He expressed optimism about the discussions, stating, “What we’re saying is just about complying with the rules and regulations.”
Boateng pointed out that compliant businesses like Melcom, MaxMart, and Shoprite operate without issues in the market. “If you comply, we don’t have any problem with you,” he affirmed. His remarks underscore the need for fair competition and adherence to local laws to create a balanced trading environment.
As tensions rise between local and foreign traders, the Spare Parts Dealers Association continues to advocate for stronger enforcement measures to protect local businesses and ensure compliance across the board.
