The Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) has taken a decisive step to safeguard the interests of shippers in Ghana by declaring that no shipper utilizing Ghana’s ports should bear the cost of delays that are beyond their control.
This bold move is aimed at addressing concerns over unfair charges that have long plagued Ghana’s shipping industry. By establishing clear guidelines, the GSA seeks to ensure that shippers are not penalized for inefficiencies within port operations.
This directive comes amidst growing complaints from the shipping community regarding unwarranted demurrage and storage fees. Such costs, often arising from port congestion or delays in cargo clearance, have placed significant financial strain on businesses.
Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) New Policy on Payment for Port Delays: How it works
To enforce this directive, the Ghana Shippers Authority has outlined a framework for reporting and addressing disputes. Shippers are encouraged to document any delays and associated charges, providing evidence to the GSA for investigation. The authority has pledged to collaborate with port operators, shipping lines, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with the policy. This initiative is expected to bring much-needed transparency to Ghana’s shipping industry, which plays a vital role in the country’s economic growth.
Stakeholders in the shipping industry have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a step in the right direction. “This policy will help small and medium-sized businesses remain competitive by reducing unexpected costs,” said Kwame Ofori, a logistics consultant in Accra. However, some industry experts have expressed concerns about the implementation process, urging the GSA to provide clear timelines and robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure the policy’s success.
Ghanaians have slammed outgoing government led by President Akufo-Addo as burdening Ghanaians with taxes especially with the importation of vehicles among others at the port which is crippling our souce of livelihoods
