Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, Acting Director General of GPHA, promises reforms to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness at Ghana’s ports. Stakeholders face high duties and taxes, prompting some to use foreign ports. Measures including tax removals have begun to alleviate these burdens as discussions progress toward a 24-hour operational system.
Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Acting Director General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has committed to implementing reforms that will enhance the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports. His initiatives include streamlining operations to align with the government’s goal of establishing a 24-hour economy, thereby reducing costs for stakeholders.
Freight Forwarders, traders, and shipping agents currently face challenges due to high import duties, taxes, and various fees at Tema and Takoradi ports. This scenario has prompted some importers to shift their operations to Togo and Abidjan ports, which negatively impacts revenue generated by Ghana’s ports.
In response to these concerns, Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono has announced that measures are being implemented to address these issues effectively. He pointed out that the government has already taken significant steps, including the removal of certain taxes and COVID-19 related levies, to alleviate the financial burdens faced by traders.
During a recent courtesy visit from the Leadership of the Importers and Exporters Association in Tema, Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono remarked on preventing unnecessary costs associated with demurrage and other charges, with an invitation for stakeholder input on policy implementation.
Additionally, the Acting Director General highlighted ongoing discussions to facilitate a 24-hour operational system at Tema Port. Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association, welcomed these reforms and expressed optimism that they would transform Ghana’s ports into a preferred destination for business operations.
In conclusion, Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono’s commitment to reforming Ghana’s ports seeks to reduce operational costs and enhance competitiveness through an integrated 24-hour economy. These efforts, coupled with the government’s removal of certain levies, aim to attract and retain importers and exporters, promoting Ghana as a viable business hub.
Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com
