The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA, Customs Division), in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), has intercepted and destroyed 850 cartons of smuggled Orexi brand diapers that entered the country without proper declaration, tax clearance, or product registration.
Flagged during routine cargo checks, the consignment was found to be unregistered, substandard, and illegally imported.
The destruction exercise was carried out under strict supervision at the Korle Lagoon Klert dump site.
“This operation has not only protected public health but also prevented significant tax evasion and revenue loss to the state,” a GRA Customs official stated.
“These illegal importations are not just a health risk—they represent direct economic sabotage. When importers smuggle goods and avoid duties, they deprive the nation of critical funds needed for infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”
The interception comes in the wake of disturbing international reports, including a March 2025 exposé by China’s state broadcaster CCTV News.
The report revealed the illegal reprocessing of used hygiene products, such as diapers and sanitary pads, which are then shipped to developing markets, including Ghana.
As part of intensified enforcement, GRA Customs has rolled out the following measures:
- Stricter monitoring at ports and inland borders
- Real-time data sharing with the FDA and National Security
- Enhanced penalties for undeclared and misdeclared goods
- Close surveillance of distributors and retail outlets handling unregistered brands
GRA Customs is urging all importers and freight forwarders to comply with tax and regulatory requirements.
The public is also encouraged to report suspicious diaper brands, especially those sold at unusually low prices or lacking FDA approval marks.
Officials say this seizure is a firm reminder that tax evasion through smuggling endangers lives and undermines national development.
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