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Policy rate cut to 25% will ease business pressure - GUTA applauds BoG

GUTA Hails Bank of Ghana's Policy Rate Cut to 25% as Lifeline for Struggling Businesses

In a move that has been met with widespread approval from the business community, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced a reduction in its policy rate from 27% to 25%. This decision, revealed during the latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, is seen as a strategic effort to alleviate the mounting pressures on businesses amid a challenging economic landscape. The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), a key representative body for traders and entrepreneurs across the country, has been quick to applaud the central bank's action, describing it as a timely intervention that could significantly ease borrowing costs and foster economic recovery.

The policy rate, often referred to as the benchmark interest rate, serves as a critical tool for the BoG in influencing overall lending rates in the economy. By lowering it, the central bank signals to commercial banks to reduce their own interest rates on loans, making credit more accessible and affordable for businesses and consumers alike. This latest cut comes on the heels of a series of economic indicators showing a moderation in inflation and a stabilization in key macroeconomic variables. Inflation, which had been a persistent thorn in Ghana's side, has shown signs of easing, dropping from highs of over 50% in recent years to more manageable levels. The BoG's decision reflects confidence in these trends, aiming to stimulate economic activity without reigniting inflationary pressures.

GUTA's endorsement of the rate cut underscores the real-world implications for the trading sector, which forms the backbone of Ghana's economy. In a statement released shortly after the announcement, GUTA President Dr. Joseph Obeng expressed optimism about the potential benefits. "This reduction in the policy rate is a welcome relief for businesses that have been grappling with high borrowing costs," Dr. Obeng said. "For too long, traders and small enterprises have been squeezed by exorbitant interest rates, which have stifled growth, limited expansion, and even forced some operations to shut down. With this cut to 25%, we anticipate a ripple effect that will lower the cost of doing business, encourage investment, and ultimately create more jobs."

To understand the significance of this development, it's essential to delve into the broader context of Ghana's economic challenges. The country has faced a tumultuous period marked by global shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and domestic fiscal imbalances. These factors contributed to a sharp rise in inflation, currency depreciation, and a debt crisis that necessitated an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout. As part of the IMF-supported program, Ghana has implemented austerity measures, including fiscal consolidation and monetary tightening. The BoG's previous hikes in the policy rate were designed to curb inflation by making borrowing more expensive, thereby reducing spending and money supply. However, this approach, while effective in stabilizing prices, came at a cost to businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that rely heavily on bank loans for working capital.

GUTA, representing thousands of traders from bustling markets in Accra to regional hubs in Kumasi and Tamale, has long advocated for policies that support the informal sector. Many of its members operate in retail, wholesale, and import-export businesses, sectors that are highly sensitive to interest rate fluctuations. High borrowing costs have not only increased the price of goods but also eroded profit margins, leading to higher consumer prices and reduced competitiveness. Dr. Obeng highlighted how the rate cut could address these issues: "Lower interest rates mean businesses can access cheaper credit to import goods, restock inventories, and expand operations. This will help stabilize prices in the market and make Ghanaian products more competitive both locally and internationally."

Economists and analysts have echoed GUTA's sentiments, noting that the policy shift aligns with global trends where central banks are beginning to ease monetary policies as inflation cools. In Ghana's case, the MPC cited declining inflation risks, improved foreign exchange reserves, and a strengthening cedi as justifications for the cut. The central bank projects that inflation will continue to trend downward, potentially reaching single digits by the end of the year if current trajectories hold. This optimism is bolstered by positive developments such as increased gold and cocoa exports, which have helped shore up foreign reserves.

However, the rate cut is not without its caveats. Some experts warn that while it provides short-term relief, sustained economic growth will require complementary measures, such as fiscal discipline, infrastructure investment, and reforms to enhance productivity. For instance, persistent energy sector challenges, including erratic power supply, continue to hamper business operations. Additionally, the global economic environment remains uncertain, with potential disruptions from geopolitical tensions or commodity price volatility that could affect Ghana's import-dependent economy.

From GUTA's perspective, the policy rate reduction is a step in the right direction but part of a larger puzzle. The association has called on the government to build on this momentum by addressing other pain points, such as high taxes, bureaucratic hurdles in business registration, and inadequate access to finance for SMEs. "We urge the BoG and the government to monitor the implementation closely," Dr. Obeng added. "Commercial banks must pass on these lower rates to borrowers promptly. We've seen in the past where policy rate cuts don't fully translate to reduced lending rates due to banks' risk premiums."

Looking ahead, the impact of the 25% policy rate on Ghana's business landscape could be profound. For traders, it means potentially lower costs for financing imports of essential goods like electronics, textiles, and foodstuffs, which could help curb imported inflation. Small businesses might find it easier to secure loans for expansion, leading to job creation and increased economic activity. In rural areas, where agriculture and petty trading dominate, cheaper credit could enable farmers to invest in better equipment and inputs, boosting productivity and food security.

The BoG's decision also has implications for consumers. As businesses face lower financing costs, they may pass on savings through reduced prices, easing the cost-of-living pressures that have burdened many Ghanaians. This could contribute to social stability, especially in the lead-up to national elections, where economic issues are likely to be central.

In conclusion, the Bank of Ghana's policy rate cut to 25% represents a pivotal moment in the country's economic recovery efforts. GUTA's applause reflects the hopes of a business community eager for relief after years of hardship. While challenges remain, this move signals a shift toward a more accommodative monetary policy that prioritizes growth and inclusivity. As Ghana navigates its path to sustainable development, stakeholders will be watching closely to see if this intervention delivers the promised easing of business pressures and paves the way for a brighter economic future. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Ghanaweb.com Article at:
[ https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Policy-rate-cut-to-25-will-ease-business-pressure-GUTA-applauds-BoG-1994032 ]