The Importers and Exporters Association is advocating for reforms to the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) rather than its complete removal, citing its vital role in enhancing customs revenue and trade efficiency.
Despite concerns over the implementation of the Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) within ICUMS, the Association maintains that the system remains crucial for revenue collection.
In 2024, ICUMS significantly boosted customs revenue, increasing collections to GHS 44.3 billion from GHS 30.6 billion in 2023.
At a press conference, the Association’s Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, called on stakeholders to collaborate in refining the system.
He stressed that the challenges with the UCR are rooted in policy issues rather than flaws in ICUMS itself.
“It is important to clarify that concerns about UCR implementation stem from government policy, not ICUMS. Addressing these challenges requires a broader policy discussion at the governmental level,” he stated.
He urged Ghanaians to see ICUMS as a system that is continuously evolving.
“The journey toward a fully integrated and efficient customs management system is a marathon, not a sprint. ICUMS has already brought us closer to the finish line, and abandoning it now would be a setback. Every great system evolves, and ICUMS is no exception.”
He further appealed to stakeholders to focus on improving the system rather than discarding it.
“We urge all Ghanaians to recognize ICUMS as a work in progress, adapting to the demands of global trade. Instead of discarding a system with immense potential, let us encourage Ghana Link to address its challenges and enhance its effectiveness for national progress.”
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