The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has urged the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, to step in and resolve the mounting congestion at the nation’s sea ports.
According to the trade body, persistent delays at the Tema and Takoradi Ports have triggered high demurrage fees, significantly pushing up operational costs for commercial operators.
Executive Secretary of the Association, Mr Samson Asaki Awingobit, stated that the gridlock has left business owners struggling to clear consignments on time. He warned that these extra overheads are being passed on to local markets, worsening price hikes for everyday consumers.
Mr Awingobit further indicated that the congestion is forcing international shipping lines to divert vessels and offload cargo in neighbouring countries—a development he cautioned would severely harm domestic commercial activity.
“Once an importer establishes a reliable alternative supply chain through another regional gateway, winning that business back becomes extremely difficult,” he stated
To address the situation, the association wants the Office of the Chief of Staff to convene an emergency stakeholder meeting bringing together the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, and key regulatory bodies to map out a long-term solution.
He added that swift state intervention would ease the strain on local businesses, help control price inflation, and safeguard government revenue collection at the ports.
“We are calling on the Chief of Staff to take a keen interest and lead these three ministries and we the stakeholders to find a lasting solution. Maybe we can have a one-day national dialogue to deal with the situation,” he added.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana