By Edward Dankwah, GNA
Accra, April 14, GNA – The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) say it fully supports the implementation of the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) System at the ports.
The Association said attempts by some individuals and groups to portray it as opposing the system were misleading and based on outdated information from a December 2025 publication.
A statement issued in Accra and signed by Mr Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the IEAG explained that its earlier concerns were legitimate and focused on inadequate stakeholder consultation, data security, transparency, and system integration.
It noted that following those concerns, the Government through the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), engaged extensively with stakeholders, including the IEAG.
The statement said the engagements were constructive and addressed key issues raised, demonstrating the government’s commitment to strengthening the implementation framework of the system.
“As a result of these consultations and the good faith shown by the government, the IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System, which has since been rolled out,” it said.
The Association acknowledged that the implementation phase had experienced some operational challenges, noting that such difficulties were common with major policy and technological reforms.
It, however, commended authorities for ongoing efforts to resolve the challenges and ensure the system operated efficiently.
The IEAG highlighted the potential benefits of the AI system, including enhanced revenue mobilisation, improved transparency, reduction in revenue leakages, and minimisation of unethical practices at the ports.
It described the initiative as a critical step towards modernising Ghana’s trade facilitation system and strengthening economic growth.
The Association cautioned the public against attempts to recycle outdated positions to serve narrow interests, stressing that such actions misrepresented its stance and undermined national progress.
It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies that improve efficiency at the ports, eliminate bottlenecks, and promote a fair and competitive trading environment.
The IEAG urged all stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the Publican AI System in the national interest.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei