The Ghana Shippers Authority is being asked by importers and freight forwarders operating at the Tema port to make sure that shipping lines do not impose additional demurrages, rent, or storage fees on them as a result of delays brought on by the nation’s widespread internet outages.
Since last week, there has been a nationwide breakdown in internet services, which has hampered cargo clearance at Ghana’s main seaport and resulted in demurrages.
Paulina Abrokwah, a co-chair of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) Technical Committee of the Tema District, elucidated the extent of the influence on the port’s operating expenses.
“Given the circumstances, we’re hopeful that at least a few service providers, such as shipping lines and terminals, will show consideration and forego the additional fees associated with any delays that may arise.
“We are hoping that the Ghana Shippers Authority will take the lead in this and ensure that traders or importers don’t have to suffer to pay demorages as a result of this general internet outage,” she said.
“The banks were one particularly problematic sector. At least as of Friday, they could not pay duty. You cannot proceed with the remaining procedures after you are unable to pay,” she stated.
The National Communication Authority (NCA) predicts that fixing the malfunctioning undersea cables might take at least five weeks, to restore reliable connections to the impacted nations.
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana’s Executive Secretary, Samson Azaki Awingobit, stated on the back that the Economic Management Team (EMT) needs to come up with a Plan B right away to make sure importers don’t suffer.
