The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has announced the deferment of the rollout of the Smart Port Note (SPN), which was scheduled to take effect on February 1, 2026.
In a public notice issued on January 20, 2026, the Authority explained that the decision follows the emergence of issues requiring further clarification and alignment with key stakeholders.
“Following the initial notice issued on 23rd December 2025, certain issues have emerged that require further clarification and alignment with key stakeholders,” the GSA stated.
Coalition of traders rejects Smart Port Note rollout, demands policy reassessment
The Authority said the implementation date has been postponed to allow for an additional round of stakeholder consultations before the policy is enforced.
“Given the above, the Ghana Shippers’ Authority hereby announces, for the information of the shipping public, the deferment of the implementation date of the Smart Port Note (SPN), which was scheduled to commence on 1st February 2026 (load-on-board date), in order to subject the outstanding issues to an additional round of stakeholder consultations prior to implementation,” the notice added.
The GSA assured stakeholders that a new date for the rollout of the Smart Port Note would be announced in due course.
The Smart Port Note is expected to streamline port operations, improve efficiency, and enhance transparency within Ghana’s shipping and logistics sector.
MA
