Footwear manufacturers threaten protests over influx of cheap imports

The Ghana Leather and Footwear Manufacturers Association (GLFMA) has warned of nationwide demonstrations if the government fails to take immediate steps to protect local footwear manufacturers from the growing influx of cheap imported products.

The association said it had given the government seven working days to respond to a petition submitted to Parliament and provide a clear plan to address the challenges facing the industry.

However, it said no concrete enforcement measures or timeline had been communicated.

According to the GLFMA, the continued influx of low-cost imported footwear is putting local producers under severe pressure, with several workshops at risk of shutting down and the livelihoods of artisans and manufacturers in Accra, Kumasi and other parts of the country hanging in the balance.

Among its key demands is the enforcement of existing laws restricting foreign retail traders from illegally operating in Ghana’s local footwear markets.

The association is also calling for stricter customs checks, including proper valuation and auditing of imported footwear, to tackle alleged under-invoicing and under-declaration.

The manufacturers are further asking the government to introduce a policy requiring public schools nationwide to procure uniform footwear and sandals from local producers.

In addition, the GLFMA wants the government to spearhead a national “Wear Made-in-Ghana Footwear” campaign to encourage consumers to choose locally produced footwear and help protect jobs and businesses within the sector.

The association is also seeking a formal meeting with Parliament’s Select Committee on Trade, Industry and Tourism to agree on a clear framework and timeline for enforcing the measures it is demanding.

GLFMA President Gilbert Akwasi Ntim said the association had remained patient and engaged with relevant government institutions in an effort to resolve the matter without resorting to protests.

“We believe in the rule of law and respect the mandate of state institutions, but we cannot sit idle while our livelihoods are destroyed,” he said.

Ntim warned that the association would have no choice but to mobilise its members for demonstrations in Accra and Kumasi if urgent action was not taken.

He added that the group would also return to Parliament to push for its demands and ensure that the concerns of local footwear manufacturers received the necessary attention.

The GLFMA has consequently urged leather workers, footwear manufacturers, traders and other industry stakeholders across all 16 regions to remain united as they await further directives on the planned demonstrations.



AK/MA