The recent passing of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Law has received widespread support from key players in the industry, including the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA). This new law is set to empower the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) to protect the interests of shippers and shipping service providers, as well as improve regulatory oversight in the commercial shipping sector.
For over five decades, the Ghana Shippers Authority has been instrumental in ensuring compliance with established standards and guidelines in the shipping industry, not only within Ghana but also for transit to neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. The passage of this new law marks a significant milestone as it repeals and replaces the outdated 1974 Act (NRCD 254) that had been in place for 50 years.
One of the primary objectives of the new law is to address the issue of unfair and excessive charges that have burdened traders using Ghana’s sea and air ports, as well as land borders, for international trade. Major trade associations in the country have expressed confidence that this law will help alleviate the challenges faced by shippers over the years.
Dr. Humphrey Ayim Darkeh, the President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), commended the new law, stating that it would create a level playing field for shippers to engage with their agents in a fair and equitable manner. He emphasized the role of the Shippers’ Authority as a referee to ensure fairness in the cost of doing business, particularly at the port of entry where various costs impacting production are incurred.
Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), is optimistic that the implementation of the new law will have a positive impact on the cost of doing business in Ghana. The Roads and Transport Committee of Parliament also supported the bill, citing the fragmented nature of shippers in the country, which has weakened their bargaining power against multinational shipping service providers.
In conclusion, the passing of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Law represents a significant step towards enhancing the regulatory framework in the shipping industry and addressing the challenges faced by shippers in Ghana. With the support of key trade associations and stakeholders, the operationalization of this law is expected to bring about positive changes that will benefit the business community and improve the overall competitiveness of Ghana’s trade sector.