The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG) has dismissed allegations from the New Voter Forum (NVF) and Democratic Credentials Network Ghana (DCN-Ghana) concerning port health services and trade facilitation systems. TAGG stated that these assertions are unsubstantiated and diverge from the operational realities of Ghana's trade sector. The group questioned the authority of NVF and DCN-Ghana to make definitive pronouncements on international trade matters without direct stakeholder experience.
TAGG emphasized that insights into trade facilitation services should come from those actively involved in the systems daily. The group clarified that the views expressed by NVF and DCN-Ghana do not represent the perspectives of traders, importers, exporters, and freight forwarders. TAGG also highlighted the New Voter Forum's past support for the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN), a policy widely opposed by trade stakeholders.
This dispute occurs amidst Ghana's ongoing efforts to streamline trade processes and enhance revenue assurance through digital platforms. The efficiency of port operations and customs administration directly impacts the nation's economic competitiveness and revenue generation. Previous technical glitches with the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) have caused disruptions, underscoring the system's sensitivity to national supply chains.
"The realities of trade facilitation are best understood and evaluated by those whose businesses depend on their effectiveness," TAGG stated in its response. The group underscored its continuous monitoring of port activities and found no issues with the performance of LCB Worldwide Ghana Limited. TAGG also noted LCB's community collaboration, which includes market disinfection efforts.
Looking ahead, the debate over port efficiency will likely continue to draw attention from various stakeholders. Decision-makers in trade and finance will monitor system performance and any proposed reforms closely. Market participants will also observe how these discussions influence policy decisions that could affect import/export costs and timelines. TAGG maintains its commitment to supporting reforms that improve efficiency and transparency within Ghana's trade sector.
TAGG strongly supported the continuation of sanitary control measures at Ghana's ports, citing their importance for public health and national biosecurity. The association commended LCB Worldwide Ghana Limited (LCB) for its consistent and professional delivery of port disinfection services. TAGG's monitoring team regularly visits the ports and has not found any lapses in LCB's operations. Beyond the ports, LCB has partnered with trader groups to conduct disinfection and fumigation exercises in markets nationwide. These interventions have led to reduced pest infestations, improved hygiene, and lower disease risks in trading communities.
The traders' group criticized NVF and DCN-Ghana for relying on unsupported claims, including references to an 'independent assessment' and an 'undercover team.' TAGG argued that public policy discussions require verifiable data, scientific evaluations, or expert findings, not speculation. It urged organizations influencing national discourse to subject their claims to rigorous scrutiny. TAGG also rejected suggestions that the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) is ineffective. The group asserts that ICUMS has significantly improved customs administration by enhancing transparency, strengthening revenue assurance, reducing manual processes, and streamlining cargo clearance procedures since its introduction. While acknowledging occasional technical challenges, these are common for large digital platforms and have been addressed through stakeholder engagement and system improvements.
TAGG further expressed concern over a pattern of attacks against key service providers within Ghana's trade ecosystem. The association suggested that sustained criticism could aim to create opportunities for competing interests. TAGG warned against undermining confidence in critical trade facilitation infrastructure through narratives that do not reflect operational realities. It called on organizations interested in port reforms to engage directly with recognized industry associations before drawing conclusions on national commerce issues. The group reiterated its commitment to supporting reforms that enhance efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within Ghana's trade sector. It will oppose initiatives it believes do not serve the interests of traders and the wider economy.