The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has endorsed the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trade Solution, describing its implementation as a positive step towards strengthening customs valuation, improving transparency and supporting domestic revenue mobilisation.
According to the Association, Publican AI has helped reduce excessive human discretion in customs valuation while improving consistency in the assessment of similar consignments.
The system became fully operational at Ghana’s ports in March 2026 following engagements involving the IEAG, the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
The Association noted that the technology has contributed significantly to customs assessment and revenue mobilisation. However, it stressed that some implementation challenges still require urgent attention.
Addressing Implementation Challenges
While welcoming the progress made through Publican AI, the IEAG identified delays in resolving valuation disputes and fluctuations in duty assessments as areas requiring further improvement.
The Association called for a faster and time-bound appeals process to prevent unnecessary delays, demurrage charges and disruptions to business operations.
It also encouraged continuous engagement with stakeholders and further capacity building for Customs officers, freight forwarders, clearing agents and other industry players.
The IEAG believes that continued improvement and calibration of the valuation system will help strengthen confidence among importers and exporters while ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the customs clearance process.
Urgent Action Needed on Tema Port Congestion
Beyond the implementation of Publican AI, the Association raised serious concerns about persistent container congestion at Tema Port.
According to the IEAG, congestion continues to affect the smooth movement of goods and vehicles within the port enclave and surrounding areas, creating operational difficulties for businesses and other port users.
The Association has therefore called for urgent interventions to expand and improve container-handling capacity at the port.
It believes that additional modern terminal infrastructure could complement existing facilities, improve cargo-handling efficiency and support the smoother movement of goods and vehicles.
Concerns Over Container Administrative Charges
The IEAG also raised concerns about Container Administrative Charges imposed by some shipping lines and their agents.
The Association has called for greater stakeholder engagement to address concerns surrounding charges and ensure that importers and exporters are not subjected to unnecessary costs.
It has urged relevant authorities and industry stakeholders to work together towards practical and sustainable solutions that protect businesses while supporting the efficient operation of Ghana’s maritime trade sector.
Strengthening Port Security
The Association has further called for stronger security measures within the port enclave.
According to the IEAG, improved security is essential to protect traders, transporters, workers and other users of the port while supporting Ghana’s broader economic and trade ambitions.
The Association has therefore encouraged increased surveillance, patrols and rapid-response measures to strengthen safety and security across the port environment.
Reliable Digital Systems Are Essential
The IEAG also highlighted the importance of reliable digital services and payment platforms for efficient port operations.
Disruptions to digital systems can delay customs processes and cargo clearance, resulting in significant time and financial costs for businesses.
The Association has called for stronger system maintenance, technical support and contingency arrangements to ensure that customs and port-related services remain operational and reliable.
Moving Towards More Competitive Ports
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana maintains that the benefits of technological innovation must be supported by efficient infrastructure, reliable digital systems, effective security and continuous stakeholder engagement.
The Association remains supportive of reforms that improve transparency, efficiency and predictability within Ghana’s trade and customs environment.
While endorsing the progress made through Publican AI, the IEAG is calling on relevant authorities to urgently address persistent port congestion and other operational challenges affecting importers, exporters and businesses.
The Association believes that coordinated action among government institutions, port authorities, Customs, shipping lines and trade stakeholders will be essential in building a more efficient, competitive, secure and business-friendly port environment for Ghana.
