GUTA Raises Concern Over Chinese Shopping Malls, Says They Are Taking 60% of Ghana’s Market Share

Clement Boateng, as the President of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), has expressed worry about the growing presence of Chinese-owned shopping malls in Ghana. In an interview on Joy News’ PM Express on November 5, 2026, Mr. Boateng accused these malls of capturing a large portion of the local retail market, citing that they currently hold about 60 percent of Ghana’s market share.

While acknowledging that 2026 has been a generally good year for traders due to improved macroeconomic indicators, Mr. Boateng cautioned against interpreting the increase in retail activity as a direct measure of the well-being of local businesses. He pointed out that a significant portion of the apparent growth is due to the rise of Chinese shopping malls.

The GUTA President expressed concern that these malls are adversely affecting indigenous traders, many of whom still operate from smaller shops and tabletop businesses. He urged authorities to scrutinize the impact of these malls on local businesses.

Additionally, Mr. Boateng raised concerns about the potential repatriation of profits generated by foreign-owned businesses. He argued that profits from locally owned businesses are more likely to remain within Ghana’s economy, thereby strengthening it. His comments underscore a growing concern about the distribution of benefits from Ghana’s improving business environment.