The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has rejected allegations by the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) that Customs officials failed to follow due process in the auction of perishable goods at the ports.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the Authority stressed that its operations are fully guided by the provisions of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891), which clearly outlines procedures for handling both perishable and non-perishable goods.
According to the GRA, Section 53(3)(a) of the Act gives a Proper Officer the authority to dispose of perishable goods through public auction once they overstay for 21 days without clearance. This, the Authority explained, differs from the treatment of motor vehicles, which are granted up to 60 days for valuation and clearance under Sections 55, 57, and 59 of the same law.
“It is therefore erroneous to indicate that importers have 60 days within which to clear perishable goods,” the statement clarified. “The law is clear on the distinction between perishable goods and motor vehicles.”
The GRA further encouraged importers to make use of the pre-cargo arrival clearance system, which allows duties to be paid before cargo lands in Ghana. This, the Authority said, reduces the risk of losses from delays and ensures smooth clearance processes.
Responding directly to the concerns raised by IEAG, the Authority said its auction of perishable goods is lawful and necessary to prevent losses that may arise from spoilage, health hazards, and congestion at the ports.
“GRA uses this opportunity to reassure all importers and the general public of its commitment and adherence to the relevant Customs laws and procedure while upholding our values of fairness, integrity, responsiveness, service and teamwork,” the statement added.
The clarification comes amid heightened tensions between trade associations and Customs over clearance timelines, duties, and auction practices.
While importers insist that bureaucratic bottlenecks often delay clearance, the GRA maintains that strict adherence to timelines is essential for efficiency, revenue mobilization, and public health safety.
