Ghana timber sector wants tariff reduction

Ghana timber companies want to see a reduction in a utility tariff which they say has been adding pressure to their businesses, according to the International Tropical Timber Organisation’s latest market report.

The Ghana Timber Millers Organisation said they may have to lay off workers because of the higher tariffs.

The Trades Union Congress has also urged the government to reduce the tariffs to previous levels.

Big jumps in electricity tariffs have led to several closures in the timber sector over recent years, according to the timber sector.

Other burdens include the National Reconstruction Levy and high interest rates.

Ghana’s timber industry contributes about 7% to GDP and is the fourth biggest sector in terms of export revenue.