The Togolese government's plan to concession the duty-free shops and commercial spaces at Lomé's Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport has sparked concerns among opposition lawmakers. Members of the Dynamique pour la majorité du peuple (DMP) and Alliance des démocrates pour un développement intégral (ADDI) parties have submitted questions to the National Assembly seeking clarification on the project. They are worried about the potential impact on current traders and employees at the airport.
The opposition lawmakers are not opposed to modernizing the airport's infrastructure or partnering with an international operator. However, they are demanding transparency in the concession process. They want to know the details of the tender process, selection criteria, concession duration and financial terms, expected revenue for the state and Société aéroportuaire de Lomé-Tokoin (SALT), and measures to protect jobs. They also seek information on the identity of the beneficial owners and potential local partners.
The SALT has recently stated that it aims to modernize the duty-free shops through consultation and dialogue with current operators. The opposition's concerns come at a time when the country is facing various challenges, including terrorism threats in the north, high cost of living, power outages, and budget preparations for 2027. Despite these pressing issues, the opposition has made the airport duty-free concession a key agenda item.
The proposed concession has raised concerns about the potential eviction of current traders at the airport by the end of the year. The opposition lawmakers argue that any strategic economic asset transaction must prioritize national interests and protect Togolese operators and workers. They have submitted several questions to the government, seeking clarity on the project's objectives and implications.
The duty-free shops at Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport offer a range of products, including perfumes, chocolates, and whisky. Travelers passing through the airport can currently purchase these items tax-free. The opposition's concerns have sparked a national debate about the concession process and its potential impact on the economy and local businesses.
The government's decision to concession the duty-free shops is part of a broader effort to modernize the airport and improve its commercial operations. The project is expected to attract investment and enhance the airport's revenue-generating capabilities. However, the opposition's concerns highlight the need for transparency and stakeholder engagement in the concession process.
The National Assembly is expected to scrutinize the government's plans and seek further clarification on the concession project. The opposition's demands for transparency and accountability reflect the need for good governance and responsible management of strategic economic assets in Togo.
Key points
- Opposition lawmakers in Togo question government's plan to concession airport duty-free shops to a private operator, citing concerns about transparency and impact on local businesses.
