The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has rescheduled the implementation of the revised Container Administrative Charge to July 1, 2026, following growing concerns from stakeholders within the shipping and logistics sector over rising port-related costs. The new levy had initially been scheduled to take effect on May 1, but authorities say the extension will allow for broader consultations with key industry players.
A shipping container is being offloaded at a port terminal
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, May 1, the Authority explained that the additional time would be used to engage shipping lines, freight forwarders, importers, exporters and other stakeholders to reach a more balanced pricing arrangement. According to the GSA, the move forms part of efforts to address industry concerns while safeguarding the competitiveness of Ghana’s trade and logistics sector.
As part of interim measures, the transport minister has ordered the immediate enforcement of a temporary cap on the Container Administrative Charge to ease pressure on businesses operating through the ports. Under the directive, the charge for both imports and exports must not exceed GH¢720 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) until a final decision is reached after consultations.
The postponement is expected to provide temporary relief for businesses that have repeatedly raised alarms over escalating administrative and logistics expenses at the ports. Industry operators have warned that increasing costs could weaken Ghana’s competitiveness in regional trade and place additional strain on companies already battling high transportation and supply chain expenses. Meanwhile, the Ghana Shippers’ Authority has urged all stakeholders to comply with the interim arrangements as discussions continue toward a long-term resolution later this year.
