A major disruption looms over Ghana’s ports as the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations directs freight forwarders and clearing agents to suspend duty payments and down tools from April 13 to 17, 2026.
The nationwide trade action follows a breakdown in talks between the association and government over challenges linked to the rollout of the Publican AI system at the ports.
In a statement signed by its President, Clement Boateng, GUTA expressed frustration over persistent operational bottlenecks despite ongoing engagements. Traders, the association says, are grappling with erratic and inflated duty assessments, lengthy cargo clearance delays, rising demurrage and rent costs, and a lack of a reliable dispute resolution framework.
GUTA warns that these conditions are pushing businesses to the brink, creating what it describes as an unsustainable trading environment.
As part of the directive, members have also been urged to temporarily suspend all import activities until transparency and predictability are restored within the system.
The association is demanding the immediate suspension and full review of the Publican AI system, calling on authorities to act swiftly to restore confidence and stability in Ghana’s trade sector.
If widely adhered to, the action is expected to significantly impact port operations, intensifying pressure on government to address concerns raised by traders.
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