Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority (GPHA) justifies its decision to increase port duties
The Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority (GPHA) has defended its decision to raise port duties, stating that its port charges remain competitive when compared to neighboring countries in Ghana’s vicinity.
GPHA cited global economic difficulties, inflation, and currency devaluation as the reasons behind the adjustment of port tariffs.
In a communication, Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA), urged GPHA to postpone the implementation of the new tariff, citing concerns about the negative impact it could have on businesses.
In response to GUTA’s appeal, GPHA issued a statement on August 3, clarifying that it was “compelled to implement the revised tariff due to the current global economic challenges including Inflation and currency depreciation which have increased our operational cost.”
The statement explained, “Just like all other increments done in the past, the rates of increment in this year’s tariff adjustment were informed by the outcome of a comparative port tariffs studies we conducted in our neighbouring Ports of Lomé and Abidjan, to ensure that at every given time, our ports will remain competitive in terms of price and quality of services. We wish to note that even with the increment of 1″ August 2023, overall, our port tariffs remain competitive compared to our neighbours”.
GPHA emphasized its substantial investments, amounting to millions of dollars, in enhancing port infrastructure and establishing an efficient port system. These improvements are anticipated to eventually lead to reduced operational costs for businesses.
“GPHA has invested millions of dollars in upgrading port infrastructure and a well maintained and efficient port system will, which in the long run, will contribute to a reduction in operational costs for businesses, enhance productivity and facilitate smoother trade operations”.
The adjusted port tariff came into effect on August 1, 2023.
Source – citinewsroom.com
