GPHA Commitment to Reducing Business Costs at Ghana’s Ports

Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono has pledged to lower business costs at Ghana’s ports, citing government efforts to reduce burdens on importers and exporters. He acknowledged concerns over high tariffs affecting transit trade. Samson Asaki Awingobit called for measures to address port challenges such as demurrage and truck overloading, which hinder competitiveness.

The Acting Director General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, has pledged to decrease the operational costs at Ghana’s ports to enhance competitiveness and attract more trade. During a visit by the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, he discussed recent governmental efforts, including the elimination of certain levies that had historically burdened importers and exporters.

Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono announced that GPHA is in the process of reviewing port tariffs as part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving efficiency and lowering operational expenses. He recognized the concerns voiced by transit traders from Burkina Faso and other Sahelian countries regarding high taxes, which deter them from utilizing Ghana’s ports.

He also pointed out that many traders prefer the ports in Abidjan and Lomé, primarily due to their lower tariffs and the absence of specific charges like the COVID-19 and disinfection taxes. “Our colleagues engaged in transit trade have expressed dissatisfaction with some of these levies, arguing that they make Ghana’s ports less competitive,” he stated.

Furthermore, Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, urged GPHA to tackle challenges such as high demurrage charges and truck overloading within the port area. He emphasized, “To attract more business from our landlocked neighbors, we must enforce standard loading limits to prevent excessive road deterioration caused by overloaded trucks.” Awingobit remarked that addressing these issues is crucial for creating a sustainable and business-friendly environment.

The GPHA’s commitment to reducing operational costs at Ghana’s ports aligns with efforts to enhance competitiveness and attract more trade. Addressing high taxes and reviewing tariffs will strengthen Ghana’s position in the regional trade landscape. Furthermore, resolving logistical challenges is vital for fostering a business-friendly environment that can cater to the needs of both local and international traders.

Original Source: citinewsroom.com