|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Import Duties and VAT Causing High Cost of Textbooks – Publisher Laments
On Ideal 96.7 FM’s GHANA WONSOM (BIC Show), hosted by Abeiku Okai, Mr. Andrews Quansah of Oman Media, a Publishing House in Accra, voiced his concerns about the rising cost of textbooks in Ghana.
Mr. Quansah highlighted that the country’s reliance on imported raw materials for book production is a major contributor to the high prices. These materials attract significant import duties, which, in turn, drive up production costs. He explained that although raw materials may be more affordable internationally, the steep taxes and tariffs imposed on imports severely impact the final cost of textbooks.
In addition to the import duties, Mr. Quansah emphasized the burden of the 21% VAT on publishing materials, further compounding the issue. He also noted that many local publishers are forced to rely on high-interest loans to sustain their operations, adding yet another layer of financial strain.
Mr. Quansah called on the government to introduce policies that would alleviate these financial pressures, particularly by reducing the costs associated with clearing imported materials at the port. He stressed that without government intervention, textbooks will continue to be unaffordable for many students and educational institutions across the country.
The discussion underscored the need for immediate action to support the local publishing industry and make educational materials more accessible for all Ghanaians.
Source:locotvgh.com