The Ghana Shippers’ Authority has noted that it remains committed to regulating Container Administrative Charges (CAC) due to persistent complaints from importers, exporters, freight forwarders and trade associations over what they described as high costs associated with cargo clearance at Ghana’s ports.

According to a statement issued on May 20, 2026, the Authority explained that the decision to review the charges followed persistent complaints from importers, exporters, freight forwarders and trade associations over what they described as high costs associated with cargo clearance at Ghana’s ports.

The Authority disclosed that Shipping Lines and their Agents were informed on March 20, 2026, about a new cap of GH¢550 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU), which was initially expected to take effect on May 1, 2026.

The process, according to the GSA, was conducted under the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).

The Authority stated that the review involved benchmarking charges across other ports within the West African sub-region, alongside consultations with stakeholders in the maritime industry, including the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG).

However, Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe later postponed the implementation to July 1, 2026, while approving an interim cap of GH¢720 per TEU pending a final decision.

The GSA further revealed that some Shipping Lines and Agents, particularly members of SOAAG, opposed the directive through petitions, engagements and actions by a group known as the Coalition of Concerned Shipping Line Workers.

The matter has since been taken to court, with some operators seeking an injunction against the directive ahead of a hearing scheduled for May 22, 2026.

Despite the court action, the Authority maintained that it remains “unfazed, resilient and committed” to carrying out its mandate.

“The Authority shall mount a spirited defence against every legal battle aimed at undermining the vision of His Excellency the President of the Republic to reduce the cost of doing business in Ghana,” the statement said, while urging the shipping public to remain calm and cooperative.

ANAS/EB

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