Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono of GPHA has pledged to lower business costs at Ghana’s ports by reviewing tariffs and eliminating burdensome levies. The aim is to enhance competitiveness and attract more trade, addressing concerns from transit traders. Additional challenges such as high demurrage charges and truck overloading were highlighted as essential issues to tackle to improve the port environment.
Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Acting Director General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has committed to lowering business costs at Ghana’s ports to enhance competitiveness and attract trade. This commitment follows operational reviews addressing recent government initiatives, including the removal of burdensome levies affecting importers and exporters.
The GPHA is also conducting a thorough review of port tariffs to increase efficiency and reduce operational expenses. Tanye-Kulono highlighted concerns from transit traders in Burkina Faso and nearby regions, who are discouraged by high taxes at Ghana’s ports compared to those in Abidjan and Lomé, where lower tariffs and the absence of specific charges exist.
Tanye-Kulono remarked on the challenges faced by foreign traders, noting, “Our colleagues engaged in transit trade have expressed dissatisfaction with some of these levies, arguing that they make Ghana’s ports less competitive.” He acknowledged the barriers posed by language differences and is optimistic that necessary tariff adjustments will be implemented soon.
In addition, Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, called for actions to tackle high demurrage charges and truck overloading within the port area. He emphasized that enforcing standard loading limits is crucial to avoid road degradation.
Awingobit argued that by addressing these challenges, Ghana could significantly improve its attractiveness as a trade hub, benefiting local businesses and foreign traders alike. Streamlining port operations and reducing overall costs are essential measures for creating a sustainable and business-friendly environment.
The GPHA’s commitment to reducing operational costs and reviewing port tariffs reflects an effort to increase the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports. Addressing the concerns of transit traders and operational challenges will enhance trade opportunities, solidifying Ghana’s role as a key regional trade hub. Collaborative efforts between the GPHA and trade associations are essential for sustainable improvements and maintaining an inviting business environment.
Original Source: citinewsroom.com
