The Customs Brokers Association of Ghana (CUGAB) has urged the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) to work closely with relevant stakeholders to address persistent challenges at transit terminals, which they say are affecting Ghana’s international trade.
Speaking at a GPHA-hosted media forum, CUGAB President Nana Fredua Ofori-Atta highlighted difficulties faced by customs brokers and freight forwarders, particularly in transit trade.
He noted inadequate infrastructure, lack of reception areas, and poor facilities for night operations making it difficult for workers to perform effectively.
“When it rains, there is nowhere to take shelter, and at night, there is no place to rest when you are tired,” he said, emphasizing the need for improvements in infrastructure, security, and port roads.
While commending the rollout of 24-hour operations, Mr. Ofori-Atta warned that Ghana risks losing transit traffic to neighbouring ports like Togo if conditions are not improved.
“Delays in addressing these issues could cause Ghana to suffer, as importers may choose alternative ports, and it becomes hard to regain that business,” he said.
The CUBAG President welcomed the government’s recent budget allocation for port activities, acknowledging that while the funds are not sufficient, their strategic application could significantly improve operations.
On the 24-hour service, he noted the policy reduces dwell time and demurrage, allowing work to continue overnight instead of deferring to the next day.
He added that although some shipping lines and government agencies are yet to fully adopt the system, he expects broader participation as the program continues.
Mr. Ofori-Atta called for urgent collaborative action to ensure that transit terminals are efficient, safe, and supportive of Ghana’s growing trade ambitions.
