BACKGROUND OF MARITRADE

Maritrade, is the fusion of two words, “Maritime” and “Trade”.  Maritrade is a well-researched book that features experienced and erudite professionals who have tried assiduously to simplify the intricate concepts and rules on maritime trade.

International transport of goods, with a sea link, involves complicated operations, and indeed many technical and legal requirements have to be fulfilled. The issues of packaging and storage, the terms of shipment, the cost of transportation, delivery schedules, contract terms and arrangements etc. are very important and quite complex too. Equally important are the documentation and the procedures, domestic and foreign laws, and international conventions relating to the sale, terms of payment and carriage goods by sea. These also include the roles and responsibilities of the carrier and the shipper as well as their respective agents.

The publication of Maritrade arose out of the quest from the shipping community in Ghana to have lectures that centre on International Trade and Transport.

In particular, the shipping community had made requests of the Authority to provide education on issues relating to the legal framework within which transportation contracts are executed.

Also, research undertaken by the Authority’s Research Department had brought to the fore the need for education of shippers with respect to ancillary shipping services such as banking, finance and insurance.

Publications such as this can only serve to increase awareness in the maritime sector and help build the requisite capacity for the enhancement of operations in the maritime industry.