Ghana Gains Competitive Edge from U.S. 10% Tariff, Says Ambassador Palmer

Outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, highlighted that Ghana benefits from recent global tariff changes introduced by the United States, particularly compared to its trade competitors. In an interview on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, she emphasized that while Ghana faces a 10% tariff on exports to the U.S., this rate is considerably lower than tariffs imposed on other countries.

Ambassador Palmer pointed out that key exports like oil and gas, which Ghana heavily trades with the U.S., are exempt from tariffs altogether. She contrasted Ghana’s 10% tariff rate with those faced by countries such as Bangladesh and Vietnam, which are subject to significantly higher tariffs of 47% and 63% respectively.

Further, she noted that around 60 countries endure tariffs exceeding 10%, positioning Ghana with a potential competitive advantage in global trade dynamics. This situation, she said, could favor Ghana’s export sector, especially in the short term.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Palmer encouraged Ghanaian stakeholders to actively engage with U.S. lawmakers before the current tariff framework expires at the end of September 2025. She emphasized the importance of advocacy to maintain or improve Ghana’s favorable trade terms.

Overall, Ambassador Palmer’s remarks suggest that Ghana’s relatively low tariff rate offers a strategic opportunity to strengthen its trade relations with the U.S., provided that proactive diplomatic efforts are pursued before the tariff terms are reconsidered.

Source: Citi newsroom