The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has recently responded to concerns raised by the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) regarding sections of the newly passed GSA law that is awaiting the president’s assent. One of the main issues raised by GUTA is the registration of shippers and shipping service providers, which they strongly oppose. However, the GSA has clarified that registration does not equate to licensing, as misunderstood by GUTA.
According to the GSA, registration simply means registration and has always been a part of Ghana’s laws. Sections 1 of L.I. 1347 (1987) and Section 2 of L.I. 2190 (2012) have previously provided for the registration of shippers by the GSA. The GSA emphasizes that registration is necessary for identification and expediting the processing of shipments, and should not be misconstrued as a licensing regime.
In response to GUTA’s concerns about the submission of notice of shipment not being discussed with stakeholders, the GSA points out that this requirement has also been a part of Ghana’s laws. Sections 8 of L.I. 1347 (1987) and Section 12 of L.I. 2190 (2012) have previously mandated the submission of shipment notifications by shippers. The GSA believes that the submission of shipment notifications should not cause any apprehension when goods are legally shipped.
Regarding GUTA’s claim that the final draft was issued to stakeholders only after Parliament had approved the Bill, the GSA clarifies that stakeholders, including GUTA, were actively engaged throughout the legislative process. The GSA assures the public that they are committed to addressing any concerns that may jeopardize the intent of the law through the forthcoming Legislative Instrument (L.I.).
GUTA also raised issues about the Advance Shipment Information System (ASN) being reintroduced in the Act, which they have previously resisted. The GSA explains that the ASN is not new and has been included in the current law (L.I. 2190 (2012)). The ASN is intended to facilitate pre-arrival clearance processes at ports, thereby reducing costs such as demurrage for shippers.
In conclusion, the GSA reaffirms its commitment to engaging with stakeholders to address any concerns and ensure that the new law enables profitable commercial shipping business in Ghana. They emphasize the importance of collaboration and constructive engagement to shape the sector into a driver of socio-economic growth. The GSA appeals to all stakeholders to participate in discussions and provide input for the forthcoming L.I. to align Ghana with global shipping standards and enhance its competitiveness in international trade.