The Ghana Shippers' Authority (GSA) has commenced a nationwide sensitisation program for shippers on the mandatory registration with the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS). This directive is in accordance with the Ghana Shippers' Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122), aiming to streamline cargo clearance processes and enhance data collection for national policy formulation.
Officials from the GSA, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and ICUMS are touring the country to educate stakeholders. This outreach explains how the electronic system will simplify cargo clearance and provide crucial data for economic adjustments. The initiative targets all importers and exporters, requiring them to register with the Authority before processing any shipment transactions through the ICUMS platform.
This move is part of Ghana's broader economic strategy to improve trade efficiency and regulatory compliance. The mandatory registration aligns with ongoing efforts to digitise government services and enhance revenue collection. Effective implementation of Act 1122 is expected to contribute to a more transparent and efficient trade environment, which is vital for Ghana's economic growth and international competitiveness.
Mrs. Sylvia Asana Dauda Owu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Technical Services at the GSA, emphasised the importance of this mandatory registration. She urged freight forwarders to support the process by ensuring their clients register promptly. This will prevent disruptions to cargo clearance, which could otherwise impact supply chains and trade volumes.
During a sensitisation program on August 5, 2026, freight forwarders appealed for an extension of the implementation deadline to August 31, 2026. This extension would allow more time for stakeholder sensitisation and compliance. Mrs. Dauda Owu acknowledged this request, assuring participants that GSA management would consider the appeal and communicate its decision soon. This flexibility demonstrates the GSA's commitment to a smooth transition for all stakeholders.
The meeting also addressed the implementation of the Container Administrative Charge (CAC). Mr. Stephen Adjokatcher, President of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), and Mr. Johnny Mantey, Chairman of the GIFF Tema Chapter, encouraged freight forwarders to ensure importers comply with the approved GHS 720 charge. This charge is critical for supporting the administrative costs associated with container management and overall port operations.
Mr. Divine Agbeko, Deputy Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, called for continued collaboration among all stakeholders. He stressed that such cooperation is essential to facilitate seamless cargo clearance and improve overall trade efficiency. Enhanced collaboration will ensure that Ghana's ports remain competitive and attractive for international trade.
The GSA's efforts to strengthen regulatory compliance and enhance stakeholder collaboration are central to promoting efficient trade. The effective implementation of Act 1122 (2024) is expected to have a significant positive impact on Ghana's trade sector. Businesses should monitor the GSA's decision regarding the deadline extension and ensure full compliance to avoid penalties and operational delays. This initiative underscores Ghana's commitment to modernising its trade infrastructure and regulatory framework.