The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana has warned that persistent delays at the Tema Port could push food prices higher, as importers continue to face severe disruptions in clearing bulk and bagged cargo.

In a statement dated January 5, FABAG rejected claims by Tema Port management that operations have returned to normal, insisting that conditions at the bulk and bagged cargo section have worsened significantly.

According to the association, its members, who account for a large share of Ghana’s bulk food and beverage imports, continue to experience serious operational challenges. Information available to FABAG suggests current performance levels are the worst recorded in more than 23 years.

The association said cargo discharge rates have collapsed sharply. Labour productivity has dropped to about 200 metric tonnes per day, compared to the previous minimum average of 2,000 metric tonnes.

This represents a 90 per cent decline in efficiency, with severe consequences for port users.

FABAG said the introduction of a 24-hour shift system has failed to improve output. Instead, inadequate staffing, low morale and unresolved worker grievances continue to slow operations and extend turnaround times.

The association also reported unprecedented delays in vessel turnaround. Ships are experiencing prolonged berthing periods, slow cargo evacuation and inconsistent loading and offloading schedules.

These delays are driving up demurrage, storage and logistics costs.

According to FABAG, owners of three vessels currently discharging bulk and bagged goods are already facing substantial demurrage charges. The association warned that these costs will be passed on to importers, manufacturers and ultimately consumers.

FABAG further expressed concern about what it described as a growing disconnect between official statements and conditions on the ground. It said public assurances that downplay the situation are deepening uncertainty and eroding confidence among port users.

The association stressed that the Tema Port remains a critical national asset and that inefficiencies at the port have direct implications for inflation, food security, the competitiveness of local manufacturers and overall economic growth.

FABAG said public relations statements cannot replace real operational improvements and called for urgent action to resolve the crisis.

It is calling for immediate and transparent engagement involving the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, port management, labour unions and key user groups. The association also wants independent verification of port performance data, including vessel turnaround times and cargo dwell times.

FABAG further called for urgent corrective measures to restore efficiency and for honest communication with stakeholders and the public.

The association said it remains committed to constructive engagement but will continue to speak out when operational failures threaten local businesses and the welfare of Ghanaian consumers, warning that the problems at the Tema Port persist and require decisive action.