Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) expressed optimism over recent legislative changes that grant the Ghana Shipper’s Authority (GSA) enhanced regulatory powers.
Speaking at a significant meeting in Accra on Thursday, August 1, 2024, Obeng underscored the importance of the new Act, which modernizes Ghana’s shipping industry regulations, some of which have been in place since 1974.
“We’ve long advocated for stronger regulatory powers for the GSA to manage shipping costs effectively,” Obeng stated.
“This Act is a crucial development, but we anticipate further updates to resolve any gray areas that may still exist,” he added.
The meeting, led by Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry Kofi Ahenkora Marfo, brought together representatives from the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), GUTA, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Marfo described the session as highly productive, noting that the discussions were aimed at addressing outdated provisions in Ghana’s shipping laws and ensuring that the industry benefits from a refreshed legal framework.
“The new Act seeks to enhance regulatory oversight within the shipping industry, addressing long-standing issues such as high costs and inadequate enforcement powers,” Marfo said. “Our goal is to modernize the legal framework and ensure it meets the needs of the shipping industry.”
Dr. Humphrey Ayim Darke, President of the GSA, highlighted the Act’s significant reforms.
“Previously, the GSA lacked the authority to effectively negotiate or approve service charges,” Darke explained.
“The new law empowers us to approve or disapprove of these charges, which is crucial for controlling costs and improving the business environment at our ports.”
Seth Twum Akwabiah, CEO of the AGI, welcomed the new legislation, describing it as a positive step forward.
“The Act enhances our ability to engage with agents fairly and provides a clearer framework for addressing cost issues at the ports,” Akwabiah noted.
He also emphasized the need for continued refinement of the Act’s implementation to resolve any remaining uncertainties.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to collaborate further and refine the Act to ensure it effectively addresses the needs of the shipping industry and its stakeholders.
