The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has defended its newly-passed law, which some industry stakeholders, led by the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), fear could negatively impact the commercial business sector.
In response to these concerns, the GSA has committed to continuing discussions with stakeholders and ensuring that the Legislative Instrument (L.I.)—which will operationalize the law—takes into account any issues that may hinder its intended benefits.
One of the primary concerns raised by GUTA is the mandatory registration of shippers and shipping service providers, which GUTA strongly opposes.
However, the GSA clarified that this registration process should not be interpreted as a licensing requirement, as GUTA has suggested.
The Authority emphasized that the registration is intended solely for identification purposes and to facilitate quicker processing of shipments, which is crucial for the timely operations of shippers.
Responding to criticisms that the final draft of the law was only shared with stakeholders after Parliament had approved it, the GSA explained that this perception reflects a misunderstanding of the parliamentary process involved in passing bills.
The GSA also addressed concerns about the suspension, renewal, or cancellation of registration, emphasizing that these measures pertain only to permits and licenses for importers and should not be seen as part of a licensing regime.
The Authority reiterated that the registration process is in the best interests of shippers, as it enhances efficiency in shipment processing, thereby saving time—a critical factor in the shipping industry.
Regarding opposition to the Advance Shipment Information (ASI) System, the GSA pointed out that this system is not new, as it is already included in L.I. 2190 (2012), which is currently in force. The new law will continue to operationalize the ASI through an upcoming L.I., and the GSA is actively consulting with stakeholders to gather input for this L.I. The purpose of the ASI, according to the GSA, is to assist shippers in pre-arrival clearance processes at ports, which will help prevent avoidable costs such as demurrage.
Addressing GUTA’s assertion that L.I.s cannot override an Act, the GSA assured stakeholders that the new L.I. will provide better clarity on provisions that may seem to hinder profitable commercial shipping in Ghana.
The GSA emphasized that its efforts are focused on aligning Ghana with global shipping standards, ensuring that the country remains a competitive route for international trade.
The GSA reiterated its commitment to constructive collaboration and engagement with all stakeholders in the commercial shipping sector.
The Authority assured the public that the new law is designed to enable, rather than inhibit, profitable commercial shipping, as GUTA has acknowledged since its passage.
The GSA called on all stakeholders to remain engaged in discussions as inputs for the forthcoming L.I. are collected and considered by the relevant law drafters and makers.
