The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) wishes to formally inform its members and the general trading public of the official rollout of the Smart Port Note (SPN) system by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA).
This public notice is issued to ensure awareness, understanding, and compliance across the shipping, logistics, import, and export community.
What Is the Smart Port Note (SPN)?
The Smart Port Note (SPN) is an advanced shipment information system introduced under the mandate of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority pursuant to L.I. 2190.
Its purpose is to enhance:
Trade facilitation
Cargo monitoring and traceability
Compliance enforcement
Availability of reliable shipping and logistics data
The SPN system is being implemented in partnership with Inter-Ocean Maritime and Logistics Institute Limited (IOMLI) and its technical partner Antaser Afrique BV.
The agreement followed extensive stakeholder consultations involving IEAG and other key trade bodies including GUTA, AGI, TAGG, GIFF, CUBAG, ACHAG and FFAG.
Important Clarification for Importers
IEAG wishes to clearly assure its members and the business community that:
The SPN does NOT impose any cost on importers or consignees in Ghana.
The applicable service fees are paid only by exporters in the country of origin, in line with international best practice.
This clarification is important to avoid misinformation and unnecessary concern within the trade community.
Key SPN Compliance Requirements
Effective 1st February 2026, the following requirements shall apply:
All cargo destined for Ghana, including transit cargo, must have a valid SPN issued and validated at the port of loading.
Each Bill of Lading must carry a unique SPN Code.
Cargo shipped without a valid SPN shall not be cleared at Ghanaian ports until all penalties are paid and validation is completed.
Only Inter-Ocean Maritime & Logistics Institute (IOMLI) and Antaser Afrique BV are authorized to issue and validate SPN codes through:
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IEAG’s Position
As a stakeholder in the consultation process, the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana supports initiatives that:
Improve cargo transparency
Strengthen port efficiency
Reduce trade risks
Align Ghana with global shipping standards
IEAG encourages all members to familiarize themselves with the SPN system and ensure their overseas suppliers comply fully with the new requirements.
Our Commitment
IEAG remains committed to:
Protecting the interests of importers and exporters
Promoting trade facilitation
Supporting policy awareness and compliance
Serving as a bridge between government agencies and the business community
Members who require clarification or support may contact the IEAG Secretariat directly for assistance.
Issued in the interest of the Ghanaian trading community.
Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG)
