New Shippers’ Authority Law: Importers and Exporters Association dismisses Calls for President to delay Approval

The Importers & Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has dismissed calls from some commercial shipping industry stakeholders urging President Nana Akufo-Addo to delay the signing of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Law 2024, labeling these calls as baseless.

President of IEAG, Sampson Asaki Awingobit, in an interview, stated that the law, in its current form, ensures accountability and responsible conduct among all stakeholders within the commercial shipping value chain. The Association believes that the law creates a more organized and regulated environment for trade, safeguarding the interests of both importers and exporters.

Despite concerns raised by the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) and the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) regarding certain sections of the law, and their request for the President to hold off on signing it until further discussions can be held, the IEAG maintains that the new Ghana Shippers’ Authority law is a crucial step towards improving transparency and efficiency in the shipping and logistics industry. While acknowledging the need for continued dialogue, the IEAG insists that the signing of the law should proceed without delay.

The Association also underscores the importance of ongoing collaboration between the Ghana Shippers’ Authority and key stakeholders to ensure that the law’s implementation effectively addresses the practical challenges faced by importers and exporters.

Additionally, the IEAG has called for the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to provide clear guidelines and support to businesses, helping them adapt to the new regulations. The Association emphasizes that the law should be viewed as a tool for facilitating smoother and more efficient trade operations within Ghana, rather than as a barrier.

Source: ghananewsonline.com.gh