Ghana Shippers’ Authority has begun enforcing its expanded regulatory powers under the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122), bringing new discipline and transparency to the shipping and logistics industry.
The Authority clarified in a statement dated Tuesday, July 15, that it is acting strictly within its mandate following reforms passed by Parliament and assented to by the President in October 2024, which elevated the GSA from an advocacy body to a statutory regulator.
The new law mandates all shipping service providers—including shipping lines, terminal operators, clearing agents, and freight forwarders—to submit all proposed fees, charges, and tariffs to the Authority for review and approval before implementation.
The GSA has since rejected several proposed hikes, including those from shipping lines and ground handlers at Kotoka International Airport, on the grounds that they were commercially unjustified.
Responding to concerns that its regulatory stance may stifle business, the GSA stated that its approach is fair and rooted in extensive stakeholder consultations.
The Authority emphasized that all complaints and tariff reviews undergo thorough investigation and dialogue, noting that its methods are inquisitorial rather than adversarial.
The Authority is also addressing complaints over the arbitrary application of foreign exchange rates by some shipping lines. Following investigations, the GSA requested a meeting with the Bank of Ghana, affected shipping lines, and complainants.
“We acknowledge the concerns raised in the said publication and wish to use this opportunity to address some factual inaccuracies, and also provide clarity on the GSA’s mandate and ongoing interventions to ensure a conducive shipping and logistics ecosystem for all players in the sector.”
“The transformation of the GSA from a purely advocacy institution to a regulatory authority by the passage of Act 1122 (2024) marked a significant milestone in the development of Ghana’s trade sector.”
“The shift reflected a broader national commitment to foster inclusive, transparent, and cost-effective governance of the sector. Under the new law, shipping service providers-including shipping lines, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and clearing agents are required to submit all proposed charges, fees, and tariffs to the GSA for review and approval prior to their implementation.
In preparation for full enforcement of Act 1122, the GSA is working on a Legislative Instrument in collaboration with regulators across the transport chain and other industry stakeholders.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the interests of shippers, promoting fair pricing, and positioning Ghana as a competitive hub for international trade.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
