Ghanaian exports to the United States will face a 15% ad valorem tariff following a new executive order signed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump on July 31, 2025.
The tariff, which takes effect in one week, is part of a broader U.S. strategy to address what the White House describes as a “national emergency” driven by persistent trade deficits and imbalanced trade relations.
Ghana joins dozens of countries — including Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa — deemed by Washington to have failed to sufficiently align their trade policies with U.S. interests.
According to the executive order, the duties are aimed at enforcing reciprocal trade terms while protecting America’s domestic manufacturing base and national security interests. U.S. officials argue that current trade practices by several nations contribute to long-standing American trade deficits.
The new tariffs are expected to affect Ghanaian exporters in sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and processed foods, which currently enjoy significant access to the U.S. market. Trade experts warn the move could disrupt supply chains and erode Ghana’s competitiveness unless both nations strike a new bilateral deal.
The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) and the Ministry of Trade have yet to comment on the development, though the government is expected to issue a formal statement in the coming days.
The order also introduces strict anti-circumvention measures, with penalties of up to 40% for any listed country found rerouting exports through third parties to avoid the tariff. The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office will monitor compliance and provide updates every six months.
The decision marks a notable shift in U.S.–Ghana trade relations, coming despite Ghana’s long-standing reputation as one of Washington’s most stable and cooperative partners in West Africa.