The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has directed shippers not to pay for the costs associated with delays at ports caused by system failures or equipment breakdowns.

This follows reports of significant delays in the delivery and evacuation of containers at the Port of Tema.

The situation has been largely attributed to recurring scanner breakdowns at the MPS Terminal 3 and intermittent glitches in the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS).

In a statement, GSA clarified that, such costs are unjustified and should not be imposed on shippers.

“No shipper using a port in Ghana should pay for costs associated with delays not occasioned by the shipper,” the statement noted.

All cargo interest holders, consignees, and service providers have therefore been urged to report any such charges to the GSA for investigation.

The Authority has assured that “where it is established that delays were due to systemic failures, refunds will be issued.”

GSA further acknowledged that the efforts are being made to address the challenges and pledged to work with stakeholders to ensure the efficient delivery of services.

The GSA also took the opportunity to wish the shipping community a productive business season and happy holidays, signaling its resolve to support industry players during this critical period.

Read the statement below: