The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has rejected allegations of under-invoicing in Ghana’s raw rubber exports, describing recent media reports as misleading.

The Authority said the claims, which suggested widespread under-declaration of export values and volumes, did not accurately reflect the regulatory processes governing the sector.

In a formal response to the reports on Tuesday, the TCDA explained that it operated a licensing and permit regime to regulate the export of raw rubber and ensure compliance with established guidelines.

It stated that all exports were subject to strict controls, including the issuance of permits and monitoring of export volumes, aimed at safeguarding the local rubber industry and promoting value addition.

The Authority clarified that it did not have unilateral powers to ban or halt the operations of licensed exporters but worked within the legal framework to enforce compliance.

“The TCDA has introduced and enforced stricter regulatory controls in the rubber industry, which are already yielding measurable benefits,” the Authority noted.

It added that since the introduction of the licensing and export permit system, both the number of exporters and the volume of raw rubber exports had reduced significantly.

The response follows recent media publications alleging that Ghana had lost substantial revenue through under-invoicing and exports beyond approved permits, raising concerns about the sustainability of the local rubber processing industry.

The TCDA maintained that it remained committed to ensuring transparency, accountability and the growth of the rubber value chain, while supporting government efforts to strengthen regulation in the sector.

The Government has, in recent months, announced measures to restrict raw rubber exports to ensure adequate supply for domestic processing and protect local industries.

Source : Access Agric