RUPAG commends govt for raw rubber export ban
The Rubber Processing Association of Ghana (RUPAG) has commended the government for imposing a temporary 10-year ban on the export of raw natural rubber. In a press statement copied to The Ghanaian Times yesterday, the association described the decision as a strategic intervention that would ensure the sustainability of the rubber industry through an adequate … The post RUPAG commends govt for raw rubber export ban appeared first on Ghanaian Times.
The Rubber Processing Association of Ghana (RUPAG) has commended the government for imposing a temporary 10-year ban on the export of raw natural rubber.
In a press statement copied to The Ghanaian Times yesterday, the association described the decision as a strategic intervention that would ensure the sustainability of the rubber industry through an adequate supply of raw materials for players along the value chain.
RUPAG further noted that the ban would boost both local and foreign investment, while supporting industrialisation and the government’s 24-hour economy policy.
“RUPAG highly commends President John Dramani Mahama for his visionary leadership, commitment to industrialisation, and responsiveness to stakeholders’ concerns within the rubber industry,” the statement said.
The association assured the government, farmers and other stakeholders of its support for the directive, stressing that it would not abuse the ban to disadvantage farmers or any other actors.
It pledged to operate in a fair, responsible and transparent manner, while collaborating with stakeholders to protect and sustain the industry.
RUPAG reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term development of Ghana’s rubber sector through plantation expansion, farmer support programmes and value addition initiatives.
“The association also pledges its full cooperation with all state institutions responsible for implementing and enforcing the directive to ensure its successful execution in the interest of the industry and the nation as a whole,” the statement added.
The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry (MoTAI), in a letter dated April 27, 2026, and signed by the sector Minister, Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, announced the ban following a Cabinet decision and discussions held at the Office of the President under the Accelerated Export Development Programme.
According to the ministry, the directive forms part of efforts to promote local industrial production and value addition.
“Reference is made to the Cabinet decision dated November 11, 2025, and the outcome of the meeting held at the Office of the President, chaired by President John Dramani Mahama, on the Accelerated Export Development Programme,” the letter stated.
“With immediate effect, the export of raw natural rubber from the Republic of Ghana is hereby prohibited for a period of 10 years,” it added.
MoTAI explained that the directive aligns with key government initiatives, including the Accelerated Export Development Programme, the Feed the Industry agenda, and the 24-hour economy programme aimed at increasing local processing, industrial activity, exports and job creation.
The ministry directed all relevant authorities, including the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Ghana Police Service and the Tree Crops Development Authority, to ensure strict compliance at all borders, ports and export points.
It warned that individuals or companies that violate the directive would face sanctions under Ghanaian law.
BY TIMES REPORTER
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The post RUPAG commends govt for raw rubber export ban appeared first on Ghanaian Times.