Coordinator for the Anti-Smuggling Taskforce on Vegetable Oil Import, Dr. Paul Amaning, has disclosed that Ghana expends GH¢11 billion annually on oil imports.

According to him, this substantial expenditure is attributed to the lack of interest among Ghanaian consumers in locally produced oil.

"Despite the availability of quality locally manufactured oil, consumer preference leans towards imported varieties, leading local manufacturers to export their products to neighboring countries like Nigeria where demand is higher," Mr. Amaning remarked.

During an interview with Akua Boakyewaa Yiadom on Burning Issues, the Coordinator highlighted that Ghana imports oil from countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, among others, on an annual basis.

Mr. Amaning further revealed that the total quantity of oil produced domestically and imported amounts to 686,475 metric tonnes, with a combined value of GH¢20,520,000.

He elaborated that the mishandling of oil in the market often results in contamination, rendering it unfit for consumption. Therefore, after Easter, the sale of oil in open containers will be prohibited in markets.

To combat the issue of smuggling, the Anti-Smuggling Taskforce, comprised of the Tree Crop Development Authority, the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and National Security, is undertaking rigorous enforcement measures.

In recent weeks, they have confiscated numerous smuggled vegetable oil shipments as part of their efforts to cleanse the market.