Ghana Ports Chief Seeks Collaboration To Reduce Import Costs

Tema, Ghana – The head of Ghana’s Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Michael Luguje, is urging all parties involved in imports to work together on lowering duties and fees at the ports.

Luguje believes involving everyone in the import chain is crucial to reducing overall costs. This, he argues, would benefit consumers who rely on imported essential goods. He emphasized that Ghana’s goal of becoming a West African port hub is at risk if its ports are not competitive.

“We need to examine each entity’s contribution and identify areas where reductions can benefit everyday consumers,” Luguje told Joy Business in an interview. “That’s the challenge. If we lower port fees today, importers should also lower prices for consumers.”

Luguje stressed the importance of protecting consumers from price hikes by including all stakeholders. “If we reduce port charges, will importers lower prices? If not, then only the importers benefit. It’s crucial that everyone in the trade chain commits to supporting the economy. When port prices go down, everyone should benefit,” he said.

Luguje underlined the need for all parties involved in the import process to understand the economic advantages of price stability. He reiterated that any decrease in port fees should be reflected in final consumer prices to promote economic growth.

Trade groups and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) have recently voiced concerns about the high cost of doing business at Ghana’s ports. The AGI blames high levies imposed by various government agencies and shipping lines. Analysts say these high costs make Ghana’s ports unattractive, despite significant expansion projects undertaken to accommodate larger ships and increase activity at both Tema and Takoradi ports.