The Chief Executive Officer for MAXGO AUTOS, Maxwell Opoku Agyemang, has stated that port and harbour charges have not been reduced, questioning why importers should be compelled to cut prices or scale down operations under such conditions. He said operational costs at the port remain high, making it difficult for dealers to absorb additional financial pressure.
He further noted that the cost of import duties on vehicles has not been reduced. For example, duties on twelve imported cars reportedly remitted by the company remain high, pushing overall operational expenses upward and increasing financial pressure on importers.
The CEO also responded to a statement issued last week by the Automobile Dealers Association of Ghana, which called for certain industry adjustments. He stated that although the association’s directive may have been well-intentioned, such measures would not effectively address the financial pressures facing individual dealers and business operators.
He appealed to the association to reconsider its decision, arguing that uniform reductions without corresponding cost cuts at the port and in taxation would place additional strain on members. He further called on the government to step in and support the industry through policy adjustments, incentives, and meaningful engagement with stakeholders.
According to him, vehicle sales remain the core revenue stream for many auto dealers in the country. Any sudden reduction in vehicle imports or sales targets could create uncertainty and slow down market activities across dealerships.
He said his doors are widely open for business, adding that he deals mainly in brand-new vehicles because, in his view, old or used cars do not contribute effectively to long-term value and reliability for customers.
He explained that businesses like MAXGO AUTOS operate within a competitive environment where margins are carefully calculated. A policy-driven reduction in vehicle transactions may reduce customer access to preferred brands and limit market expansion.
Beyond business operations, Maxwell Opoku Agyemang is also known for his philanthropic initiatives, supporting community development and social interventions alongside his business activities. He believes corporate responsibility should go hand in hand with sustainable business growth.
The CEO further stressed that employment within the automotive industry could also be impacted. Dealerships employ sales executives, technicians, marketers, and support staff whose livelihoods depend on steady vehicle demand.
Industry analysts suggest that vehicle import controls are often introduced to manage foreign exchange pressures and environmental concerns. However, they argue that such policies must be implemented gradually to avoid market shocks.
Customers may experience changes in pricing and availability if supply is restricted. The CEO assured clients and partners that the company will continue to adapt to policy changes while maintaining service quality and transparency. Stakeholders in the auto industry are closely monitoring how discussions around the 15% vehicle reduction call will unfold.
