THE alleged invasion of markets in the Northern Region by foreign traders with goods of inferior quality selling at cheap prices, is said to be creating problems for the local traders.

As a consequence, a newly formed Progressive Traders Association, has appealed to the Ministry of Trade and Industry to adopt measures to control the situation.

The regional chairman of the association, Abdul-Nash Mohammed Jamal, speaking at the inauguration of the association at Tamale on Saturday noted that the invasion by the foreign traders had led to the collapse of many local businesses.

He said foreigners, mostly from Nigeria and Niger, and others from Asia, especially Indians and Lebanese, had invaded the region’s markets with low priced goods to compete with higher priced locally-manufactured products of better quality.

"Naturally, their items, like women’s clothing, footwear and cloths with very low prices attract more customers ," he said, adding that the practice is not only affecting local businesses but also customers who buy the inferior goods because they do not last.

Mr. Jamal also expressed worry about the inadequate number of banks in the region, saying that it is affecting the area. He appealed to the Northern Regional Coordinating Council to lobby for more banks to come to the region.

Responding to the traders’ concerns, the Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Mustapha Ali Idris, said it was not possible for the foreign traders to be ejected from the markets because "it is against the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) policy."

He however, assured them that he would liaise with the ministry of Trade and the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly to assist them to find a solution to the problem.

Alhaji Idris also pledged to arrange for more banks in the region but urged the traders to cultivate the habit of paying back loans granted them.