Ghana has delayed the implementation of revised container administrative fees until July 1, giving importers, exporters, shipping lines and freight operators more time to respond to proposed changes aimed at reducing port-related costs.
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) said implementation of its reviewed Container Administrative Charge (CAC) had been postponed after Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe intervened following industry concerns over the revised fee structure.
“The extension provides for comprehensive stakeholder consultations and strategic stakeholder engagements, ensuring that the final fee structure aligns with the interests of all parties,” the GSA said in a notice.
The minister has also directed an immediate regulatory cap of GHS720 per TEU for both import and export containers.
“All stakeholders are kindly requested to take note of the directive and ensure full compliance,” the GSA said.
The decision addresses concerns raised by stakeholders in the shipping and logistics industry regarding increasing port costs, reports The Ghanaian Times.
Industry operators have warned that unchecked rises in administrative and logistics costs could erode Ghana’s competitiveness and burden businesses already navigating high supply chain expenses. The interim cap on the container fee is expected to provide immediate relief by stabilising costs for importers and exporters using the country’s ports.
This development comes after earlier announcements, including a proposed lower cap around GHS 550 per TEU that had been welcomed by groups such as the Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA).
Final implementation of the revised charge will follow the outcome of the stakeholder process.
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