Parliament has passed the Ghana Shippers Authority Bill 2024, empowering the authority to regulate and standardise shipping charges, fees, and requirements imposed by service providers.

This move aims to create a more equitable environment for local businesses involved in shipping and trade.

The Roads and Transport Committee of Parliament justified the bill, highlighting the fragmentation of shippers within the country, which has resulted in weak bargaining power against multinational shipping service providers. 

This disparity has left local shippers vulnerable to unfair treatment and exploitative practices.

The committee noted that the control of ports by multinational companies has led to the imposition of exorbitant fees on port users. 

These excessive charges have, in turn, increased the cost of shipping and trade for local businesses, further straining their operations and profitability.

The Ghana Shippers Authority Bill seeks to address these issues by ensuring fair and transparent pricing, thereby protecting local businesses from exploitative practices. 

The bill is expected to provide a more balanced and competitive shipping industry, benefiting both shippers and consumers.

During parliamentary proceedings, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin announced the passage of the bill, stating, “Honourable members, the Ghana Shippers Bill 2024 duly read the third time and passed.”