The Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana (OPDAG) has called on authorities to intensify efforts t6o curb the smuggling of illegal vegetable oil into the country.
The association believes the illegal trade threatens local production, endangers public health and undermines Ghana’s economic growth.
At a media engagement held at the Ghana international press center in Accra on Wednesday 22nd October,2025, Mr. Kwame Paul Amaning, the President of the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana, highlighted the increasing cases of unapproved vegetable oil products entering Ghana’s markets.
According to Mr. Amaning, these products often evade taxes, fail to meet national quality standards and sell at cheaper prices- putting local producers at a disadvantage.
Mr. Amaning and all the members of OPDAG are urging government agencies, including Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and Custom Division of the Ghana’s Revenue Authority to strengthen border surveillance and enforce strict penalties against importers involved in such practices.
The association also appealed to the media to support in raising public awareness on the dangers of consuming unregulated vegetable oils.
OPDAG aim is to protect the local palm oil industry and ensure the safety of consumers across the country.
By Asumaniwaa Jessica Afia
