President Mahama: “Nobody Wins Tariff Wars” Urges Africa to Diversify Export Markets

Ghana’s leader warns against rising trade protectionism, says continent must rethink global trade strategy
ACCRA, Sept. 10, 2025 — Ghanaian President John Mahama has strongly warned against escalating global trade tensions, declaring that “nobody wins tariff wars.” His remarks came during a Presidential Media Encounter held at the Jubilee House, where he addressed journalists on key economic issues and Ghana’s evolving role in the international trade system.
President Mahama expressed deep concern over the rise in unilateral tariffs, particularly those imposed by the United States, which he said threaten to unravel years of progress toward a rules-based global trade order.

“Trade wars only breed retaliation, market instability, and uncertainty for businesses. Nobody wins tariff wars,” Mahama stated.

AGOA Tariff Shifts Hit African Exporters
The president specifically cited the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), under which African countries like Ghana previously enjoyed zero-tariff access to U.S. markets. That advantage has now been eroded, with some exports facing tariffs as high as 15%, he noted.

“It is disheartening that African exporters are now being penalized after years of encouraging integration into global value chains,” he added.

In a striking comment, Mahama also linked the tariff hikes to systemic problems within the affected economies, saying:

“The reason for the high tariffs only means that a lot of people are not paying.”

Analysts interpreted this as a reference to challenges in tax compliance, trade transparency, or perhaps the need for revenue recovery through import levies.
Call for Market Diversification
President Mahama used the platform to urge African nations to diversify their export markets and reduce dependency on a few powerful trade partners.

“Africa must move beyond a single-market mindset. We need to strengthen intra-African trade under the AfCFTA and expand into Asia, Latin America, and other emerging markets.”

He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), highlighting the opportunity it presents to build a resilient, self-reliant African economy.
The Bigger Picture
Mahama’s warning comes amid growing tensions between major economies, particularly the U.S., China, and the EU, where tariff battles and trade realignments are increasingly common. For developing nations like Ghana, the effects of such disputes can be disproportionately damaging.
Key Takeaways:

President Mahama calls trade wars “destructive” and urges diplomacy over protectionism

African exporters face a new 15% tariff on some goods previously covered under AGOA

Ghana advocates for diversifying export destinations and strengthening African trade blocs

Global shifts require Africa to adopt a proactive trade strategy