UAE shipments now take up to four months to arrive – GUTA President

Goods shipped from the United Arab Emirates are now taking up to four months to arrive in Ghana, according to Clement Boateng, the President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA). In an interview on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition, Boateng explained that this delay is significantly longer than the previous 45 to 60 days. The extended duration is attributed to changes in shipping routes due to the ongoing war and the situation at the Strait of Hormuz.

Boateng elaborated that the rerouting required because of the events at the Strait of Hormuz means that goods now take about three to four months to reach Ghana. This delay creates a predicament for traders who often finance their imports through bank loans. As the goods are delayed, the traders must start repaying their loans from the outset, adding another layer of stress to their operations.

He urged banks to offer a moratorium on repayments, providing traders with a temporary respite while they await the arrival of their goods.

The pressure isn't limited to the shipping journey alone; port congestion is also contributing to the delays. With the surge in cargo volumes, the clearance process for imported goods is also becoming slower. Boateng highlighted two main challenges faced by importers: the extended shipping times and the delays in clearing goods after they arrive in Ghana. He noted that traders using bank facilities are particularly affected, as they must contend with repayment obligations while waiting for their shipments to clear.

Despite these hurdles, Boateng maintained a cautiously optimistic view of the business environment in 2026. While he acknowledged that there are challenges, he suggested that the overall situation is not as dire as it might seem. However, he stressed that the extended delivery times from the UAE are a particular area of concern, as they place additional pressure on traders who depend on loans to finance their imports.