Foreigners Who Are Selling Here Have Until Dec 9 to Leave — KMA

Foreign nationals involved in retail trading in Kumasi have been asked by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to leave their retail spaces voluntarily by December 9, 2025.

The directive followed a closed-door engagement between the Assembly and representatives of the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA). The KMA announced the decision in a press release dated December 3, 2025.

The Assembly said discussions with GUTA focused on concerns surrounding the participation of foreign nationals in sections of Ghana’s retail market. It explained that the directive was designed to ensure that any exit by affected foreign traders takes place in an orderly manner and complies with existing Ghanaian trade laws.

A multi-agency committee has been established to manage the exercise. Its membership includes representatives of KMA, GUTA, the Ghana Immigration Service, Customs, Excise and Preventive Service, the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Investment Promotion Council.

According to the KMA, the committee will work to coordinate the process and prevent foreign traders from being subjected to sudden or forceful removal from their businesses.

Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi said the Assembly was determined to address the matter within the law and encouraged all stakeholders to continue engaging one another to reach a peaceful resolution.

“The Assembly counts on the cooperation of all parties to ensure peace and smooth implementation of this directive,” the KMA stated.

The Assembly said the move is part of wider measures aimed at bringing retail trading activities under proper regulation, enforcing local trade requirements and restoring order in markets throughout Kumasi.

As part of the new approach, GUTA has also been asked to suspend its practice of locking shops operated by foreign traders. The KMA said the focus should instead be on achieving a voluntary, peaceful and coordinated departure in line with the directive.