Zero tariff part of global US-China economic battle – Economist
Senior Economist at the Centre for Greater Impact Africa, Dr Samuel Worlanyo Mensah, says the proposed Ghana–China Zero Tariff Agreement announced by President John Mahama is part of a broader global economic contest between China and the United States.
According to him, China’s growing engagement with Ghana and other African countries is a strategic move to counter the economic influence of the United States across developing economies.
Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed with Nii Trebi Hammond, Mr Mensah explained that while local politics focuses on parties such as the NDC and NPP, international politics involves powerful nations competing for influence in smaller economies like Ghana.
“Currently, the US is at economic war with many countries, including Ghana. China wants to take advantage of that and counter whatever the US is doing. Every country is fighting for its own interests, and Ghana must also do the same,” he said.
Mr Mensah noted that the zero-tariff deal offers Ghana an opportunity to strengthen its local economy by promoting exports and developing domestic industries.
“For us, fighting for our interests means implementing policies and programmes that help us grow our local economy. If we secure a market to export our products, it will boost local businesses, enhance local content, and build our potential,” he added.
In his view, the ongoing economic rivalry between the US and China has created a valuable platform for Ghana to take advantage of global trade realignments and leverage them for national development.
