The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has suspended the full rollout of its planned trade action against the implementation of the Publican AI system, following a high-level meeting with the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA).
The meeting, held at the Ghana Shippers’ House in Accra on Monday, 13th April, 2026, brought together the leadership of GUTA, representatives of freight forwarders’ associations and the CEO of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, Prof. Ransford Gyampo to address concerns raised by traders over the introduction and operation of the system.
In a press statement signed by the GUTA President, Mr. Clement Boateng, on Sunday, 12th April, 2026, the Association had earlier directed its freight forwarders and clearing agents to cease payment of duties and suspend operations from Monday, 13th April to Friday, 17th April, 2026, as part of a nationwide trade action aimed at compelling the suspension of the Publican AI system for further stakeholder engagement.
However, following the meeting, GUTA agreed to suspend the full-scale rollout of the action to allow for further consultations, including a scheduled engagement with the Minister of Transport, Joseph Nikpe Bukari, on Thursday, 16th April, 2026.
During the meeting, the Chief Executive Officer of the GSA Prof. Ransford Gyampo, underscored the importance of dialogue and collaboration in resolving industry concerns, assuring traders that their issues would be addressed through the appropriate institutional channels.
He emphasised that the GSA remains committed to promoting a fair and efficient trading environment, while ensuring that reforms within the sector serve the broader interest of the economy.
Officials of GUTA, on their part, welcomed the engagement but maintained their call for the suspension of the Publican AI system, urging further consultations to address concerns over rising duties, which they say are forcing many traders and manufacturers out of business.
