The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has taken a strong stance against the introduction of an import licensing or permit regime, urging President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to withhold assent to the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2024, until stakeholders’ concerns are addressed.
In a statement signed by GUTA President Dr. Joseph Obeng, the association expressed disappointment that key issues were not adequately discussed with industry stakeholders before the Act was approved by Parliament. The statement highlighted concerns regarding the registration of shippers and shipping service providers, submission of notice of shipment, and the handling of permits and licenses required for importers to operate.
GUTA also raised concerns about the reintroduction of the Advance Shipment Information System, which was previously resisted and withdrawn by the government. The association argued that this move would further complicate the import process.
The union is calling on the President to intervene and ensure that stakeholders’ concerns are addressed before the Act is signed into law. With the fate of the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2024, hanging in the balance, the trading community waits with bated breath for the President’s decision.
GBC/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
