In a powerful joint statement, Czech President Petr Pavel and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama have denounced recent U.S. tariffs on African nations, labeling them as unilateral, harmful, and counterproductive. Speaking at Jubilee House in Accra during President Pavel’s three-day state visit to Ghana, both leaders called for a return to multilateral trade negotiations and a globally inclusive approach to economic policies.
President Pavel expressed deep concern over the U.S. policy, which imposes tariffs ranging from 10% to 50% on imports from several African and Asian nations, including Ghana, Lesotho, and Cambodia. The move, justified by the White House as a measure to protect American industries, has drawn widespread criticism for disproportionately affecting vulnerable economies.
“This decision is both brutal and unfortunate,” Pavel said. “It not only undermines the economies of developing nations but also disrupts global economic stability. A unilateral approach like this benefits no one—not Africa, not Europe, not Asia, and certainly not the United States.”
He further warned that the steep tariffs could have devastating consequences for countries heavily reliant on exports to the U.S., particularly those with fragile economies. “For nations like Lesotho, where trade and garment exports under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) play a significant role, such tariffs could cripple their economies,” Pavel emphasized.
President Mahama echoed these concerns, describing the U.S. move as a direct challenge to the global rule-based trading system that has fostered economic growth worldwide. “The multilateral trading framework has been a cornerstone of global economic progress,” Mahama stated. “By imposing these tariffs, the U.S. risks undoing years of progress and eroding trust among nations.”
Mahama cited the example of Lesotho, which faces a staggering 46% tariff, as a stark illustration of the potential damage. “Lesotho’s economy, heavily dependent on garment exports to the U.S., stands to suffer immensely. This is not just about trade; it’s about livelihoods, jobs, and the survival of millions,” he said.
Both leaders called for urgent diplomatic engagement with the United States, urging them to reconsider their approach. Pavel advocated for a collective international response, stating, “We must engage the U.S. diplomatically to rethink this policy. Damaging economies now will only lead to greater, more costly problems in the future.”
Mahama added, “Global partnerships must prioritize collective growth and shared prosperity over narrow national interests. This is the only way to ensure a stable and equitable global economy.”
The press conference marked a significant moment in the Czech President’s state visit to Ghana, which also focused on enhancing bilateral trade and fostering closer collaboration between the two nations.
As Africa and its allies push back against these tariffs, the debate highlights the growing tension between protectionist policies and the need for a cooperative global economic framework.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
