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The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has assured that the Customs Amendment Act 2020 will be reviewed to enable the importation of salvaged vehicles.
Though the implication of the Act is suspended, the former President believes it will negatively impact artisans and the transport business.
This assurance was given at the Techiman Market where Mr. Mahama engaged with economic groupings. The “Building Ghana Tour” is characterized by town hall meetings focused on documenting the challenges of various groups.
Artisans at the Techiman Magazine expressed dissatisfaction with the Customs Amendment Act. The Act, among other things, provides incentives for automobile manufacturers and assembling firms registered under the Ghana Automotive Manufacturers Programme.
It prohibits the importation of salvaged motor vehicles and cars over 10 years of age into Ghana.
However, John Mahama believes the ban on salvaged cars could be limited to government agencies.
“Since government buys cars more than any individual and also have the purchasing power, they should buy from the assembling plants for them to get their profits. So that those who can’t buy the new cars will also import the salvaged ones. When we return to power, we will make changes in the act,” he said.
To modernise the vehicle mechanic trade, the former President admitted the need to train artisans in modern technology for the business.
He explains the plans of the NDC government when it regains power.
“When I was Vice President, we partnered with SMIDO at Suame Magazine to construct a training centre and equip it with all the modern machinery to aid the training of apprentices,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mr Mahama has insisted on the legalisation of the tricycle business.
