The Ghana Union of Trader of Association (GUTA) is vehemently opposing the significant surge in port tariffs announced by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). Dr Joseph Obeng, the President of GUTA, expressed surprise at the announcement, stating that its members have already been severely affected by recent tax and levy increases.
Dr Obeng emphasized that the GPHA’s recent decision to increase tariffs is unacceptable, especially given the prevailing economic challenges in the country. He expressed concern that these tariff hikes could lead to subsequent increases in shipping line charges, further burdening businesses.
As a response to the situation, Dr Obeng called on the GPHA to suspend the implementation of the new tariffs, especially since they come only a year after the previous increase. Instead, he urged the GPHA to engage with stakeholders to assess the adverse impact of these hikes and consider alternative measures to mitigate the high cost of doing business.
Read the full statement below:
GHANA UNION OF TRADERS ASSOCIATION (GUTA)
PRESS RELEASE
INCREASED PORT TARIFFS NOT ACCEPTABLE
2nd August, 2023 Accra
The attention of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA) has been drawn to astronomical increases in Port Tariffs, that have been announced by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA).
The announcement comes as a surprise to our members, who continue to reel under the effects of the many taxes and levies that have been introduced in recent times, as well as the economic challenges plaguing the country.
And also, at this time that the port authorities themselves have been complaining about low traffic at the country’s ports due to high cost of doing business, this decision would further influence increases in shipping line charges.
We call on GPHA to suspend the implementation of these new tariffs, coming a year after the last increase, and engage stakeholders as the adverse impact of these increases would further compound the high cost of doing business.
DR. JOSEPH OBENG
President, GUTA