Ghanaian traders involved in cross-border trade with Burkina Faso have been urged to strictly comply with a new export ban on shea nuts and selected grains, as authorities warn of tough sanctions for violations.

The Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC) says Burkina Faso has imposed strict restrictions on the export of shea nuts, millet, maize and soybeans, with enforcement measures including the confiscation of vehicles and prosecution of offenders.

The directive, communicated through the National Security Council Secretariat, targets individuals and businesses engaged in the illicit movement of the affected commodities across the border.

The NRCC is advising traders, transport operators and agribusinesses in Northern Ghana – one of the region’s key agricultural trade corridors to fully adhere to the regulations to avoid penalties that could disrupt operations and livelihoods.

“In view of this development, the Northern Regional Coordinating Council wishes to inform Businessmen and women, haulage drivers, transport owners and export companies in the region to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to all applicable laws and regulations governing cross-border trade in agricultural commodities in Burkina Faso to avoid any applicable sanctions”, the NRCC said in a statement.

It is also calling on traditional authorities, market associations, transport unions and local assemblies to help disseminate the information and ensure compliance.

“The Government of Ghana remains committed to supporting lawful cross-border trade and collaboration between Ghanaians and Burkinabes and will ensure that its citizens are informed and guided accordingly”, the statement concluded.