The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has thrown its weight behind the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) System introduced by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to modernise customs operations and curb revenue leakages at the country’s ports.

In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, the association dismissed what it described as attempts by some individuals and groups to misrepresent its current position on the system, which was launched this year.

“We wish to categorically state that such claims are misleading, outdated, and do not reflect the association’s present stance.

“The IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System, which has since been rolled out,” the statement said.

Consultation

The association explained that it had, in 2025, raised concerns over the lack of adequate stakeholder consultation, as well as issues relating to data security, transparency and system integration.

At the time, it noted, the IEAG joined other industry players in calling for broader engagement to ensure that any technological transition at the ports would be credible, secure and beneficial to all stakeholders.

According to the statement, the government, through the Ministry of Finance and the GRA, subsequently engaged extensively with key stakeholders, including the IEAG.

These engagements, it said, proved constructive—addressing the major concerns initially raised and demonstrating the government’s commitment to refining and strengthening the system’s implementation framework.

“As a result of these consultations and the good faith shown by the government in responding to stakeholder concerns, the IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System, which has since been rolled out,” the statement reiterated.

The association, therefore, urged the public and stakeholders to disregard any attempts by individuals or groups to recycle outdated positions for narrow or parochial interests.

“Such efforts not only misrepresent the IEAG but also undermine national progress.

The association will not allow itself to be used as a tool for propaganda or any agenda that does not advance the collective interest of importers, exporters and the Ghanaian economy,” it said.

Benefits

The IEAG highlighted the significant potential of the Publican AI System, citing benefits such as enhanced revenue mobilisation, improved transparency, reduced leakages and the minimisation of unethical practices at the ports.

It described the system as a critical step toward modernising Ghana’s trade facilitation architecture and strengthening overall economic growth.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and reforms that improve port efficiency, eliminate bottlenecks, safeguard national revenue and promote a fair, competitive trading environment.