By Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo, GNA
Tema, June 08, GNA — The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has defended the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), describing it as a critical trade facilitation tool that has improved customs administration, revenue mobilisation, and transparency at Ghana’s ports.
The association made the remarks in a statement responding to concerns raised by some civil society organisations regarding the operations of ICUMS and port-related services.
According to the association, ICUMS, introduced in 2020 through the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has integrated customs processes, strengthened risk management systems, enhanced stakeholder visibility, and improved revenue assurance mechanisms.
The IEAG rejected claims that the system was contributing to national revenue losses, arguing that available customs revenue data pointed to significant growth in revenue collection since its implementation.
It cited reports indicating that customs revenue increased from about GH¢30.6 billion in 2023 to GH¢44.3 billion in 2024, while cumulative revenue mobilised through the platform had exceeded GH¢120 billion since its introduction.
The association said, “In 2024 alone, customs revenue reportedly increased to approximately GH¢44.3 billion from GH¢30.6 billion in 2023, representing one of the highest annual increases recorded within the customs sector.
“Additionally, available industry data indicates that customs revenue exceeded US$3.17 billion by September 2025 … Indeed, various reports have indicated that over GH¢120 billion in customs revenue has been mobilised through ICUMS since its implementation.”.
The association acknowledged that, like other digital platforms, ICUMS had experienced occasional technical interruptions, stating, however, that such challenges had been addressed through system upgrades, stakeholder engagement, and infrastructure investments.
It further stated that automation, electronic documentation, digital payment systems, and integrated cargo tracking functionalities had reduced excessive human intervention and improved transparency within customs operations.
The statement also defended the operations of LCB Worldwide Ghana Limited, which implements disinfection and health-related services at Ghana’s ports under the supervision of the Ghana Health Service.
According to the IEAG, the company’s activities contribute to border health security, biosecurity standards, and the prevention of cross-border disease transmission while supporting uninterrupted trade activities.
It called on the government to continue supporting trade modernisation initiatives through investments in system capacity expansion, software upgrades, stakeholder training, cybersecurity, interoperability among trade institutions, and strengthened port health infrastructure.
The association urged stakeholders to support ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within Ghana’s international trade environment.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo, GNA
Reporter’s email:[email protected]