The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA),has taken a significant step toward strengthening the shipping industry by educating stakeholders on the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).
The sensitization session formed part of the 2nd Southern Zone Platinum/Gold Shipper Committee Meeting, held to provide key industry players with a comprehensive understanding of the revised legal framework governing the shipping sector.
Mrs. Monica Josiah, Head of the Operations Department at the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, led the presentation on the Act. She explained that Act 1122, which amends the over 50-year-old establishment law of GSA, is designed to reflect the current dynamics of international trade and shipping. The legislation empowers the GSA to regulate the commercial shipping sector effectively, positioning the organization as a neutral arbiter among industry players.
Key provisions in the law grant the GSA enhanced powers in regulatory oversight across sea, air, land, and transit trade. It also introduces improved enforcement mechanisms and establishes a formal complaints resolution framework aimed at promoting competitiveness and efficiency within the shipping ecosystem.
In addition, Act 1122 mandates the GSA to represent the interests of Ghanaian shippers in regional and international trade Agreements, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The GSA is also clothed with the capacity to play a pivotal role in resolving commercial disputes involving shippers, service providers, and regulatory agencies operating within the port environment.
During the interactive session, participants expressed enthusiasm about the Act and showed keen interest in the progress of the accompanying Legislative Instrument (L.I.), which will operationalize its provisions.
Mr. Fred Asiedu-Dartey, Head of Business Development & Commercial Services at GSA, assured stakeholders that the L.I. is expected to be finalized by the end of 2025. He noted that the drafting process involved extensive consultations with stakeholders from across the shipping community to ensure that the instrument adequately addresses their concerns.
Participants at the meeting also raised pressing issues affecting their operations, including high demurrage charges and persistent delays in cargo clearance at the ports.
The event brought together representatives from key institutions and companies such as the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Spare Parts Dealers Association, Kasapreko Company Limited, Somotex Ghana Ltd., Cocoa Marketing Company, MaxMart, Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Wilmar Africa, AngloGold Ashanti, Ghana Immigration Service, and the Chamber of Auto Data, among others.
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority reaffirmed its commitment to engaging stakeholders in shaping policies and regulations that will enhance trade facilitation and competitiveness in Ghana’s shipping sector.
