Akosombo: Presidential Adviser on the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development, Goosie Tanoh, has issued a strong warning against individuals and groups he described as 'economic saboteurs' who abuse Ghana's customs transit, bonded warehouse, and auction regimes for personal gain.
According to Ghana Web, Mr. Tanoh, speaking at the 5th Annual General Meeting of the Customs House Agents Ghana (ACHAG), highlighted the persistent practices of misclassification and undervaluation of goods at the ports. These practices are undermining government revenue mobilization and threatening the country's economic transformation agenda.
Mr. Tanoh expressed his hope for the elimination of malfeasance and economic sabotage, emphasizing that such acts deprive the state of much-needed revenue for critical social services such as health, education, and housing. He showed optimism that the integration of Customs, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and other regulatory agencies onto the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) real-time database would reduce opportunities for abuse.
He urged the leadership of ACHAG to demonstrate courage and professional discipline by sanctioning or expelling members found culpable of engaging in fraudulent practices. Mr. Tanoh pointed out that misconduct not only affects honest investors and compliant businesses but also exacerbates unemployment and weakens public confidence in Ghana's trade and logistics systems.
The outgoing President of ACHAG, Mr. Akwasi Serebour Boateng, emphasized the need for Customs House Agents to invest in staffing and adopt shift systems to meet the demands of the 24-hour economy. He warned against unlicensed customs agency practices, which pose a serious threat to the profession, national revenue, and unsuspecting importers.
Mr. Serebour Boateng also noted that ACHAG members have benefited from structured training programs, including those covering the African Continental Free Trade Area, to help them navigate the evolving trade landscape.
Deputy Commissioner and Head of Suspense Regime at the Customs Division, Ama Birago Owusu Ansah, representing the acting Commissioner of Customs, commended customs house agents for their role in the 24-hour economy and urged them to uphold integrity in their dealings.
The event featured solidarity messages from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Ghana Shippers Authority, Food and Drugs Authority, and Ghana Standards Authority, recognizing the contribution of Customs House Agents to revenue mobilization and trade facilitation. The meeting brought together members of ACHAG from across the country and key players in Ghana's trade and logistics industry.