Ghana’s Trade Minister meets with Industry Players on Scrap Export Ban

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, on Wednesday, March 18, held a high-level meeting with importers, exporters, and dealers in the scrap metal industry to address concerns surrounding government ban on scrap metal exports.

The meeting sought to explore practical solutions and introduce measures that would ensure the export ban does not adversely affect the operations and livelihoods of scrap metal exporters and dealers.

Trade Minister, Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu Agyare hold talks with Industry players on ban on Export of Scraps

Stakeholders at the meeting were given the opportunity to present their concerns, particularly regarding the sustainability of their businesses under the new regulatory framework and policy direction.

A key issue discussed was the challenge of pricing within the scrap metal sector.

The Minister emphasized the need for fairness and transparency, noting that exporters must not be subjected to exorbitant prices when procuring scrap materials.

The Hon. Minister assured the industry players that the government will work with them to stabilize pricing and promote equitable trade practices while tasking them to recommend an appropriate pricing regime for the Ministry’s consideration.

Hon. Ofosu-Adjare also issued a strong caution to exporters, urging them to comply fully with the Ban which she announced will take effect from 1st April 2026, and warned against any attempts to circumvent the ban, stressing that strict enforcement measures have been put in place.

In particular, she advised stakeholders “not to attempt accessing the ports for scrap exports after April 1, as authorities will be vigilant in ensuring adherence to the directive.”

The engagement forms part of the government’s broader efforts to regulate the scrap metal industry while balancing economic interests and compliance with national policy on feeding and providing the requisite materials for local industries to expand, create jobs and industrialise Ghana.

The Ban on the export of non ferrous metals the Hon. Minister said is expected to boost Ghana’s processed metal exports describing the move as a decisive step toward strengthening the country’s industrial base.