GITFiC advises African countries to unite in response to U.S. global tariffs

The Ghana International Trade and Finance Conference (GITFiC) has advised African countries to adopt a collective approach to the United States’ newly announced global reciprocal tariffs. The group said a united response will give the continent a stronger voice in global trade negotiations and protect vulnerable economies from potential shocks.

On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump declared “Liberation Day” at the White House and unveiled a sweeping tariff policy aimed at resetting global trade relations. The plan introduces a baseline 10 percent tariff on nearly all U.S. imports, with higher rates—some as steep as 50 percent, targeted at 60 countries. The tariffs will take effect in phases between April 5 and April 9.

The policy, according to the Trump administration, is designed to promote “fair and equitable trade practices.” But analysts warn that it could deepen global trade tensions and disrupt supply chains already struggling from inflation and slow recovery in key markets.

Smaller economies such as Lesotho, Cambodia, Laos, and Madagascar face the steepest tariffs, ranging between 47 and 50 percent. Washington argues that these measures will push developing nations to reform their trade structures and grow local industries.

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In contrast, larger economies have been largely spared. The United Kingdom, Brazil, Singapore, and Chile are subject only to the 10 percent baseline rate. Analysts see this as a calculated move to preserve key partnerships and prevent large-scale retaliation. Ghana, Togo, and Morocco also fall under the 10 percent bracket.

The new tariffs have triggered swift reactions globally. China has imposed a 34 percent reciprocal tariff on U.S. imports, while Canada introduced a 25 percent levy on certain American auto products. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said the era of global trade anchored around the U.S. “has fundamentally changed.” The European Union is finalising its first set of countermeasures targeting U.S. steel and may expand its response if talks collapse.

GITFiC said these developments signal a turning point for Africa. “This moment presents both challenges and opportunities for African countries to adapt, innovate, and strengthen their collective economic future,” it said in a statement.

The group warned that most African nations lack the economic leverage to respond individually. It urged policymakers to consider a joint strategy under the African Union to maximise impact. “Given that over 80 percent of African countries may lack the capacity for effective individual retaliation, a united response is recommended,” GITFiC noted.

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It also called on affected nations to engage the World Trade Organization (WTO) under Article XXIII to seek consultations and dispute resolution. The group emphasised that states have the right to pursue legal recourse for damages and compensation through WTO adjudication processes.

“Fair trade must remain the foundation of global commerce,” GITFiC said. It added that the U.S. must recognise the interconnected nature of global trade and avoid measures that could destabilise economies still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

GITFiC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to collaborate with affected countries through its Global Debt Initiative to safeguard economic progress and stability across developing economies.