By Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo, GNA
Tema, Aug. 28, GNA – The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), to address operational bottlenecks and improve trade facilitation at the country’s ports.Â
The division said closer cooperation with GPHA was essential to improving container movement, reducing cargo turnaround times and strengthening revenue integrity at the ports.
Mr Aaron Kanor, the Commissioner of Customs, speaking at the launch of GPHA’s 40th anniversary celebration, said Customs and GPHA shared a common destiny because the efficiency and growth of the ports directly affected trade and national revenue.
“When the port thrives, so does revenue. When the port is efficient, trade facilitation is enhanced. We cannot succeed in isolation,” he said.
He commended GPHA’s leadership and predecessors for transforming Ghana’s ports into what he described as a ‘competitive hub’ in the West African sub-region.
He cited the modernisation of Terminal Three at the Tema Port and GPHA’s expansion drive as evidence of progress in Ghana’s maritime infrastructure.
The Commissioner said the Customs Division was committed to working with GPHA to address container movement of bottlenecks and improve operations through technology.
He said customs would continue leveraging the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) and the paperless system to enhance efficiency and uphold integrity at the ports.
Looking ahead, he said Ghana needed to build a port system that was smarter, fully digital and data-driven, with shorter vessel and cargo turnaround times.
He said such a system would also strengthen revenue collection, integrity, and confidence among stakeholders.
The Commissioner congratulated GPHA on attaining 40 years and assured the authority of the Customs Division’s continued support and collaboration.
He said the partnership between the two institutions would remain critical to Ghana’s maritime trade and economic growth.
GNA
Edited by Christabel Addo
Reporter: Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo, GNAÂ
[email protected]Â