Importers Demand Action as Port Inefficiencies Hamper Business
Importers and clearing agents at Tema Port are facing significant financial setbacks due to ongoing delays in clearing goods. Many importers express deep frustration over the situation, highlighting the financial burden of demurrage charges, which amount to at least $120 per day per container.
These charges continue to accumulate as goods remain uncleared, severely impacting the profitability of businesses. Importers report that their appeals to authorities have not yielded substantial improvements, leaving operations strained and unsustainable.
The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) has echoed these concerns, advocating for a comprehensive review of port operations to address inefficiencies. GIFF stresses the importance of expediting clearance processes, which would bolster importers’ interests and benefit the national economy.
In response, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has acknowledged these issues, promising to release a formal statement. The authority is reportedly implementing broader reforms to enhance port efficiency.
As the importers await effective solutions, the mounting financial pressure underscores the urgent need for reform—a pressing concern impacting one container, one day, and one dollar at a time.
Source: 3News