Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono’s Vision for Ghana’s Port Competitiveness

The Director General of GPHA, Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, is implementing reforms aimed at reducing costs and enhancing the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports. High import duties have driven some traders to other regional ports, prompting government action to ease financial burdens. Efforts include proposed 24-hour operations at the Tema Port, with stakeholder engagement planned to optimize business practices.

Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Acting Director General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has committed to implementing reforms aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports. He announced plans to streamline operations, aligning with the government’s vision for a 24-hour economy, which is essential for improving efficiency in port activities.

Freight forwarders, traders, and shipping agents have been facing challenges due to high import duties and various charges at the Tema and Takoradi ports. This predicament has led some importers to engage with ports in Togo and Abidjan, adversely affecting Ghana’s revenue from port operations. In response, Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono stated that measures are being developed to address these issues effectively.

He noted that the government has already taken significant steps to lighten the financial load on traders by removing certain taxes and COVID-19 related levies. This initiative aims to support traders during these challenging times. During a courtesy visit from the Leadership of the Importers and Exporters Association in Tema, the Brigadier General emphasized the importance of preventing avoidable costs associated with demurrage and other charges to facilitate a smoother business environment.

Additionally, the Acting Director General is actively promoting discussions on establishing a 24-hour operational system at the Tema Port to enhance productivity further. Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association, expressed support for the proposed reforms and optimism that they would position Ghana’s ports as a preferred business hub. He underscored the importance of engaging stakeholders on the 24-hour agenda, noting that many containers leave Ghana empty, which presents an opportunity for expansion in export activities.

The Acting Director General of GPHA, Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, is dedicated to enhancing Ghana’s ports’ competitiveness through strategic reforms that aim to lower operational costs and establish an efficient 24-hour economy. By engaging stakeholders and addressing financial burdens, the GPHA aims to transform Ghana into a more attractive business destination for international trade. These initiatives reflect a proactive approach to revitalizing the country’s port operations.

Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com