Tema: Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, has commended the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) for measures introduced to address congestion at the Tema Port. Awingobit praised the director-general of GPHA for demonstrating strong leadership by convening meetings with key stakeholders in port operations to address challenges affecting cargo clearance.
According to Ghana Web, these engagements included general managers and representatives of Meridian Port Services (MPS), who worked together to develop practical guidelines to streamline container handling and clearance procedures. Awingobit highlighted the positive outcomes of these interventions, noting a noticeable reduction in traffic queues along the Tema Beach Road following the implementation of these measures.
He urged shipping lines to comply with regulations requiring them to evacuate empty containers in proportion to incoming cargo volumes. Notably, shipping lines such as Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company, which have multiple weekly vessel calls, need to ensure the timely evacuation of empty containers to prevent congestion.
Furthermore, importers of refrigerated cargo can now clear their containers directly from MPS platforms without incurring additional electricity charges, provided the containers are not kept in storage yards. Awingobit expressed concern over alleged non-compliance by some shipping lines with directives relating to the GHS720 terminal handling charge and called on the government and relevant sector authorities to enforce compliance with applicable regulations and court decisions.
He also urged local importers to clear their goods promptly, emphasizing that the port is meant to facilitate the movement of commercial cargo and not serve as a long-term storage facility.