By Samuel Spio-Gabrah
Tema, Aug. 13, GNA — Mr Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, has commended the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) for measures introduced to address congestion at the Tema Port.
Mr Awingobit said the director-general of GPHA had demonstrated strong leadership by convening meetings with key stakeholders in the port’s operations to address challenges affecting cargo clearance.
He said the engagements brought together general managers and representatives of Meridian Port Services (MPS) to develop practical guidelines to streamline container handling and clearance procedures.
The Executive Secretary said the interventions had already yielded results, citing a noticeable reduction in traffic queues along the Tema Beach Road following the implementation of the measures.
He, however, urged shipping lines to comply with regulations requiring them to evacuate empty containers in proportion to incoming cargo volumes.
Mr Awingobit noted that shipping lines such as Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company had multiple weekly vessel calls and therefore needed to ensure the timely evacuation of empty containers to prevent congestion.
He also said that importers of refrigerated cargo could now clear their containers directly from MPS platforms without incurring additional electricity charges, provided the containers were not kept in storage yards.
He expressed concern over alleged non-compliance by some shipping lines with directives relating to the GH¢720 terminal handling charge and called on the government and relevant sector authorities to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and court decisions.
He further urged local importers to clear their goods promptly, stressing that the port was intended to facilitate the movement of commercial cargo and not serve as a long-term storage facility.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Samuel Spio-Gabrah, GNA