Accra: The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has been urged by the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) to enhance its digital services and payment platforms to avoid disruptions in port operations. The appeal follows recent breakdowns in government digital platforms, notably the Ghana.gov system at ports, which have resulted in significant delays and financial losses for businesses.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Director of the IEAG, highlighted during a press conference that the Ghana.gov platform was reportedly unavailable for about a week before service was restored. He noted that this disruption severely impacted businesses that depend on digital systems for customs and other port-related transactions.
Mr. Awingobit emphasized the importance of investing in system resilience, regular maintenance, technical support, and contingency planning to ensure reliable digital infrastructure. The IEAG stressed that as Ghana continues to adopt technology-driven systems for customs administration and trade facilitation, robust digital platforms are essential to prevent technical failures from halting critical port and customs services.
The association also urged the authorities to implement effective backup systems to allow vital transactions to proceed during technical failures. Enhancing digital reliability, according to the IEAG, would support ongoing reforms aimed at increasing the efficiency of Ghana's ports and reducing business operation costs.
In addressing other business matters, the IEAG commended the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for their efforts in improving foreign exchange and economic stability. The association noted that stability in the foreign exchange market has provided greater predictability for importers and exporters, enabling more confident international business planning.
The IEAG acknowledged the positive impact of GoldBod's gold trading policies in bolstering Ghana's foreign exchange position and facilitating access to foreign exchange for legitimate business activities. Furthermore, the association praised the Bank of Ghana for its measures to maintain macroeconomic and financial stability, particularly the reduction in interest rates, which has been beneficial for businesses reliant on credit.
Citing the Bank of Ghana's Financial Stability Review, the IEAG noted a decline in the average lending rate from 30.3 percent in December 2024 to 20.5 percent in December 2025. The association stated that continued reductions in credit costs would offer relief to importers and exporters needing working capital for goods purchases and international trade commitments.
The IEAG called on GoldBod and the Bank of Ghana to sustain and enhance measures that support foreign exchange stability and reduce borrowing costs. The association emphasized that such measures are crucial as the demand for foreign exchange, credit, and imported goods is expected to rise during the Yuletide period.