The Shipowners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG) has strongly refuted claims that its members are unfairly charging shippers with arbitrary fees at the country’s ports. During a press conference in Tema, SOAAG’s leadership emphasized that all shipping line fees are directly tied to specific services rendered and adhere to international standards.
Addressing the media, SOAAG executive member Adam Imoru Ayarna explained that shipping lines engage in transparent dialogues with shippers to agree upon contractual terms, including any destination or local charges. He also advocated for the reintroduction of terminal handling charges (THCs) to ensure greater transparency in the pricing structure, noting that THCs would itemize all local charges to clarify cost drivers.
“Shipping lines cannot operate on basic ocean freight alone, which is simply the cost of transporting goods from one port to another,” Ayarna said, adding that additional charges help to account for various uncontrollable costs. He dismissed allegations of illegitimate fees, stressing that every charge is negotiated and agreed upon in contracts.
Madam Perpetua Osei-Bonsu, SOAAG’s executive secretary, further highlighted the misconception that shipping lines are solely responsible for the high cost of doing business at the port. She emphasized that the association’s media engagement aimed to educate the public and stakeholders about the operations of shipping lines and their contribution to Ghana’s maritime industry.
Osei-Bonsu encouraged journalists to deliver balanced and informed reporting on shipping activities, stating, “This engagement seeks to empower the media to provide compelling and impartial reportage, shedding light on the critical role our members play in the maritime sector.”
SOAAG hopes that this dialogue will help eliminate misconceptions and foster a better understanding of shipping practices in Ghana.