The Ashanti Business Owners Association (ABOA) has formally registered its opposition to the government’s recent rollout of artificial intelligence (AI) systems for customs valuation and tariff classification, warning that the move threatens to destabilise Ghana’s trade ecosystem.
In a press statement released on March 31, 2026, the association called for an immediate suspension of the technology, citing a “black-box” approach that leaves importers in the dark regarding how their goods are being taxed.
According to the ABOA, the primary grievance lies in the lack of transparency. While the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has moved toward digital transformation to modernise port operations, the association argues that the current AI framework operates without “explainability”.
”The AI systems being deployed offer limited visibility into how values and classifications are determined,” the statement read. “This undermines the principles of transparency and due process, which are fundamental to fair trade practices.”
The group further alleged that the system is producing “non-deterministic outcomes”, making it nearly impossible for businesses to predict costs, secure contract pricing, or plan their supply chains effectively.
The fallout, according to local importers, is already hitting the bottom line.
The ABOA noted that preliminary feedback suggests a “growing trend of arbitrary increases” in declared values, leading to excessive duty assessments.
Beyond the immediate financial strain on businesses, the association warned of a broader economic “erosion”. High import duties, they argue, are distorting pricing structures, fuelling inflation, and depleting the working capital of Ghanaian businesses.
The association also raised legal red flags, suggesting that the AI-driven valuations may violate the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Customs Valuation Agreement. Under international law, customs valuation is supposed to be based primarily on the “transaction value” (the actual price paid).
The ABOA contends that the new algorithmic approach deviates from this framework, potentially placing Ghana at odds with its international trade obligations.
”Complex trade scenarios require human judgement, which AI systems cannot replicate,” said Charles Kusi Appiah Kubi, Executive Secretary of the ABOA. He emphasised that the current over-reliance on automated systems has sidelined experienced customs officers and removed a layer of human accountability.
Despite their “deep concern”, the ABOA clarified that they are not anti-technology. Instead, they are advocating for a “hybrid decision architecture” where AI acts as an advisory tool rather than the final judge.
The association’s recommendations to the Ministry of Finance and the GRA include:
- Immediate Suspension: Halting the full-scale rollout until stakeholders are properly consulted.
- Clear Guidelines: Publishing the logic behind how the AI derives its classifications.
- Dispute Resolution: Establishing a transparent mechanism for importers to appeal AI-generated valuations.
- Pilot Programs: Testing the system in controlled environments before a nationwide mandate.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
