By: Fatou Krubally
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment (MOTIE) has refuted allegations, circulating on social media about an embargo on flour imports into The Gambia. The claims, first published by What’s On Gambia on February 23, suggested that the government had placed restrictions on flour imports, leaving local bakers struggling to source affordable supplies.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry categorically denied these allegations, stating that there has never been an embargo on the importation of wheat flour into the country. Instead, it clarified that an existing duty rate of 47% had been in place since 2013 under an amendment to The Gambia Customs and Excise Act 2010.
“This duty variation came into effect on July 1, 2013, and was implemented to create market space for the newly established Gambia Milling Corporation at the time,” the statement read. “Over the years, this measure has attracted another multi-million-dollar investment in the form of Nessim Flour Mill and Animal Feeds.”
According to the Ministry, the decision to maintain the 47% duty rate is part of a broader government strategy to support local industries, similar to measures taken for sectors like onions, potatoes, and cement.
On allegations that Fouta Trading is the sole importer of flour, the Ministry dismissed this as “false,” stating that two companies had been granted import rights in consultation with the National Bakers Union—neither of which is Fouta Trading.
“The Ministry has entered into an agreement with the National Bakers Union to allow them to import a special brand of flour to be mixed with locally produced flour,” the statement added. “This arrangement is designed to enhance production and keep the price of bread at D10 per loaf.”
The Ministry also refuted claims that importers are being forced to pay more than the actual cost of importation. “Duties are levied as a percentage of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, which in this case remains 47%,” it stated.
Encouraging potential investors to seek proper guidance before entering the market, the Ministry advised, “Anyone looking to invest in The Gambia should consult the relevant authorities, such as the Investment and Export Promotion Agency, for accurate information on laws and regulations.”