The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana has issued a strong appeal for all trading, logistics, and shipping-related groups to unite in a coordinated effort to push for critical reforms at the country’s ports.
According to the Association’s Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, a united industry voice will significantly increase bargaining power, enhance policy influence, and drive long-overdue changes to create fairer, faster, and more efficient port operations.
He stressed that bringing together key stakeholders — including the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders, the Traders Advocacy Group, and the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana — is essential for meaningful progress.
“Our fight is based on the principle that anyone who steps into a shipping line office or port terminal — whether a truck owner, driver, mate, or clearing agent — must be treated with respect and fairness,” Mr. Awingobit emphasised.
The Association believes that a unified front will compel shipping lines, terminal operators, and other service providers to address long-standing grievances such as high handling fees, delayed cargo processing, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and poor customer service.
Currently, Ghana’s ports are a critical gateway for regional trade, but industry players argue that inefficiencies, rising charges, and inconsistent service standards have eroded competitiveness. The Association insists that collaboration, rather than rivalry among groups, is the only way to transform the ports into a business-friendly and investor-attractive hub for West Africa.
Stakeholders are being urged to put aside organisational differences, focus on shared objectives, and engage government and regulators with a common agenda to modernise port operations, reduce costs, and streamline processes for importers and exporters alike.
