The Ghana Shippers Authority has initiated an investigation into reports of shipping lines imposing emergency surcharge fees on importers and exporters.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Professor R. Gyampo, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, clarifying that the Authority has not officially been informed about any Emergency Conflict Surcharge by any shipping line.
He explained that the Ghana Shippers Authority regulates the local charges of shipping lines, noting that shipping lines are owners of ships who issue their own charges.
Professor Gyampo stated that he saw a complaint about the alleged surcharge on social media on Monday night and has not slept throughout the night addressing the matter.
“I have reached out to the complainant, demanded the necessary documentary evidence and have as of this morning, initiated an investigation to address the matter,” the CEO stated.
He emphasized that it is not the Ghana Shippers Authority that imposed or is collecting the alleged surcharge.
The CEO clarified the Authority’s regulatory role, stating that while shipping lines determine their own charges, the Ghana Shippers Authority regulates the local charges imposed by these shipping lines.
Professor Gyampo assured stakeholders that the Authority takes the complaint seriously and will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the validity of the reports and take appropriate action.
The statement comes amid concerns from importers and exporters about additional costs that could affect trade and increase the prices of goods in the country.
Emergency surcharges are typically imposed by shipping lines during periods of conflict, natural disasters, or other disruptions to normal shipping routes and operations.
The Ghana Shippers Authority serves as the apex regulatory body for the country’s shipping industry, protecting the interests of Ghanaian importers and exporters in their dealings with shipping lines and other service providers.