The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has expressed frustration over what he describes as ongoing resistance by international shipping lines to Ghana’s regulatory framework.
In a recent interview on Thursday, May 22, Prof. Gyampo stated that some foreign shipping companies operating within Ghana are refusing to adhere to local laws, particularly those that govern port charges and exchange rate policies.
The statement comes on the back of complaints raised by the Chamber of Freight and Trade, which flagged irregularities in how shipping lines calculate demurrage charges and other port-related fees. According to Dennis Amfo Sefa, President of the Chamber, some shipping companies use interbank rates from their own banks, while others fix rates monthly—leading to inconsistent charges for importers.
“The shipping lines are not obliged to use the Bank of Ghana rate. This lack of uniformity creates serious challenges for importers,” he said.
In response, the Ship Owners and Agents Association explained that their charges are typically based on the prevailing exchange rate at the port of origin when a vessel sets sail for Ghana, aligning with international practices.
Prof. Gyampo, however, insists that while operational standards may vary globally, companies doing business in Ghana must comply with local laws and regulations.
“Some shipping lines do not want to be regulated. But they are operating in Ghana, and under my leadership, we will not allow them to do as they please,” he stressed.
He added that foreign companies operating in Ghana must show the same level of compliance they expect from Ghanaian companies abroad.
“We’ve been to their countries and followed their laws. The same must apply here. They cannot ignore the rules just because they are foreign-owned.”
The Shippers Authority CEO also disclosed that there has been longstanding resistance from shipping lines over policies requiring them to submit their service charges for approval.
“They’ve fought us, Parliament, and even the Presidency over these legal provisions. But we remain committed to enforcing the laws of Ghana,” he emphasized.
Prof. Gyampo concluded that the Authority will continue to act in Ghana’s best interest, ensuring fair and transparent practices at the ports.