The Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) has assured shippers that measures are being taken to ensure that the delays in clearing their goods caused by disruptions in internet services will not result in additional fees and charges for them.

According to the GSA, it will intensify engagements with relevant stakeholders to prevent shippers from experiencing any negative consequences.

This assurance comes in response to complaints from shippers who are facing challenges in the clearance process due to the automated nature of the system.

They are concerned that their goods may be subject to demurrage and rent charges unfairly.

Speaking on behalf of the CEO of GSA, Baffour Okyere Sarpong, the Head of Shipper Services and Trade Facilitation Department, Monica Josiah stated that the GSA is committed to protecting and promoting the interests of shippers.

She said the position of the GSA is that where the shippers' omission or commission does not occasion delays in the shipping/clearing of cargo, the shipper should not pay for the delays.

"The position of the GSA is that no shipper should be charged if the delays are traceable to the service disruptions", she noted.

She further explained that "on Thursday March 14, 2024 the GSA held a stakeholders meeting following complaints that were received about service disruptions at the ports. The stakeholders agree that if the delays are not occasioned by the shipper, the cost is not supposed to be borne by the shipper"

Mrs. Josiah reassured the business community that the GSA will continue to collaborate with the appropriate stakeholders to advocate for shippers whose clearance or shipment activities have been impacted by the disruption of internet services.

She encouraged importers, exporters, and stakeholders in the shipping and logistics industry to report any challenges they may encounter in their shipping activities to the GSA at its Head Office at Ridge in Accra, Branch Offices at Tema, Takoradi, Kumasi and Tamale or any of its Shipper Complaint and Resolution Units dotted at the country’s entry points for resolution. This would aid in streamlining the industry and making the cost of doing business at the port more affordable.