GSA begins nationwide sensitisation for shippers

The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has commenced a nationwide awareness campaign for shippers on the mandatory registration of shippers on the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), as mandated by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122). Representatives from the GSA, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division, and ICUMS have traversed the nation to elucidate the benefits of the electronic system in expediting cargo clearance and facilitating data collection for policy formulation and adjustments.

On August 5th, 2026, a sensitivity session was held for executives of Freight Forwarding Associations at the Ghana Shippers’ House to endorse compliance with Section 26(1) of Act 1122, which necessitates all importers and exporters to register with the Authority prior to processing shipment transactions on the ICUMS platform.

Mrs. Sylvia Asana Dauda Owu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer responsible for Technical Services, highlighted the significance of mandatory registration and implored freight forwarders to assist in the process by ensuring their clients register to prevent cargo clearance delays. Subsequently, officials from the GSA and Ghana Link Network Services Ltd. demonstrated the ICUMS registration process and fielded stakeholder inquiries to streamline the implementation.

During the deliberations, freight forwarders petitioned for a postponement of the implementation deadline to August 31st, 2026, to allow more time for stakeholder awareness and compliance. Mrs. Dauda Owu acknowledged the request and promised to review the appeal and communicate the outcome.

The meeting also tackled the introduction of the Container Administrative Charge (CAC). Mr. Stephen Adjokatcher, President of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), and Mr. Johnny Mantey, Chairman of the GIFF Tema Chapter, encouraged freight forwarders to ensure importers adhere to the approved GH¢720 Container Administrative Charge, stressing the importance of industry-wide cooperation.

Deputy Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Mr. Divine Agbeko, urged stakeholders to maintain collaboration for smooth cargo clearance and to boost trade efficiency. The event is a component of the Authority’s continuous endeavors to reinforce regulatory adherence, bolster stakeholder cooperation, and facilitate efficient trade through the effective execution of Act 1122 (2024).