DEGLORY GH MEDIA

"President Akufo-Addo Signs Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024: A Milestone in Ghana's Shipping Industry"

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has given his formal assent to the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024, a key legislative step that Parliament passed on July 29, 2024, with the aim of solidifying Ghana's place as a leader in the shipping industry across West Africa. This historic legislation arrives at a significant moment, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA), which has been instrumental in championing fair trade practices and enhancing Ghana's appeal as a hub for international commerce.

In an official statement issued by the Management of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) and distributed to media outlets including the Ghana News Agency, the Act was lauded as a landmark achievement that bolsters GSA’s regulatory powers. It is seen as a transformative step, enabling the GSA to provide a competitive, fair, and transparent regulatory framework that aligns with global standards for commercial shipping.

The Act represents a critical expansion of the GSA's scope. The new mandate allows the authority to regulate not only sea transport, which has traditionally been the primary focus but also air and land transport modes. This development is expected to have wide-reaching effects, promoting fairness, operational efficiency, and ethical practices across the board "This strengthened oversight will benefit Ghana's shipping industry by ensuring fair service delivery and transparent pricing, promoting Ghana as a maritime hub," the statement said. choice for international trade."

Recognizing the need to educate stakeholders on the new law and its provisions, the GSA has commenced a comprehensive nationwide sensitization campaign. Through this initiative, they aim to inform shipping operators, logistics companies, traders, and other relevant parties of their rights and responsibilities under the Act. Additionally, the GSA is working on gathering input for a Legislative Instrument (L.I.), a critical next step that will further guide the Act's practical implementation and ensure a smooth regulatory transition. Stakeholders are encouraged to actively participate in this exercise, which will ultimately contribute to the collective goal of building a sustainable, resilient, and competitive shipping industry.

In expressing gratitude, the GSA acknowledged the role of its stakeholders. "We are profoundly thankful for the invaluable input and dedication from all parties that have made this legislative milestone possible. Together, we have laid a foundation for a resilient, sustainable, and competitive commercial shipping ecosystem that will benefit all involved in the shipping, logistics, and broader trade sectors,” the statement read. This appreciation underscores the collaborative spirit that has driven the GSA's efforts to cultivate an environment where shipping and logistics can thrive, free from unfair practices and inefficiencies.

The GSA’s history dates back to 1974 when it was first established as the Ghana Shippers’ Council, before being rebranded in 1998 as the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to reflect its broader mandate. Over the decades, the GSA has remained steadfast in its commitment to fostering a balanced and vibrant trade ecosystem that benefits not only local industry players but also international traders who see Ghana as an attractive trading partner.

For further information, the GSA has encouraged stakeholders and the public to reach out through any of its five zonal offices or Shipper Complaints and Support Units, or by contacting their central lines at 0302-666915-7 or 0800-300055.