The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has entered into a partnership with Insurance Claims Specialist Group (ICSG) Limited to provide specialised support to businesses dealing with cargo losses and insurance claims.

The collaboration is expected to improve access to professional cargo loss assessment services and assist importers and exporters in addressing challenges involving damaged, missing or stolen goods during transportation and logistics operations.

The Executive Secretary of IEAG, Samson Asaki Awingobit, announced the partnership at a press conference organised to formally introduce ICSG Limited to the trading and business community.

He explained that the initiative was aimed at addressing the difficulties businesses often encounter when seeking compensation for insured goods that are damaged or lost in transit.

According to him, while importers may secure insurance coverage for their consignments, many struggle to establish the extent of losses, provide the necessary documentation, interpret policy requirements and successfully pursue insurance claims.

Awingobit stressed that professional loss assessment was essential in determining the cause and extent of cargo damage and providing the technical evidence required for the fair settlement of legitimate insurance claims.

He identified physical damage, theft, road and maritime accidents and fire as some of the risks goods face throughout the transportation and logistics chain.

The IEAG Executive Secretary said the partnership was particularly significant in view of Ghana's renewed efforts to strengthen local marine cargo insurance and the anticipated enforcement of the mandatory local cargo insurance framework.

He noted that as more cargo insurance transactions were undertaken locally, the availability of qualified claims assessment professionals would be necessary to build confidence in the system and improve the handling of insurance claims.

Awingobit encouraged importers, exporters, freight forwarders and other players in the trading sector to explore the services provided by ICSG Limited.

He also urged the company to demonstrate how its services could help businesses navigate insurance-related challenges and recover losses when insured cargo was damaged, stolen or lost.

He said the partnership was intended to strengthen access to professional claims support, protect business investments and improve the overall efficiency of Ghana's maritime trade and logistics sector.