By Stanley Senya
Accra, Oct. 3, GNA – The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) and the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG) have renewed calls for deepen stakeholder engagement in Ghana’s commercial shipping sector, enhance trade and improve the business environment.
At a meeting between the two institutions, Professor Ransford Gyampo, the Chief Executive Officer of the GSA, said continuous dialogue and data-sharing among shipping lines, port authorities and government agencies were critical for efficiency and fairness in the sector.
“We must listen to each other more and find a middle ground to address our challenges, the GSA’s role is not to take sides. We are referees in this space and here to ensure fairness and protect the broader interest of Ghana’s commercial shipping sector,” he said.
SOAAG raised concerns about the rising cost of doing business in the industry, cautioning against attributing the challenge solely to shipping lines.
Mr Adam Imoru Ayarna, Vice President of SOAAG, noted that several charges imposed by state agencies and additional costs such as the destruction and auctioning of cargo without recourse to shippers and SOAAG contributed to the build-up of costs.
“All of these factors result in significant increases in charges. We need to work together, share accurate information, and hold each other accountable,” he said.
Both parties stressed the importance of improving efficiency among state agencies to reduce bureaucratic delays, enhance transparency and boost operational performance.
They agreed to strengthen cooperation through regular dialogue, accountability, and a shared vision to make Ghana a competitive commercial shipping hub in West Africa.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
October 3, 2025