IEAG Calls for Immediate Enforcement Against Shipping Lines
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has called on the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) to immediately enforce its regulatory directive capping the Container Administrative Charge (CAC) at GH¢720 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU), accusing some shipping lines of openly disregarding both the Authority’s directive and a High Court ruling.
In a press statement dated July 28, 2026, and signed by Executive Secretary Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Association expressed concern that some shipping operators continue to impose significantly higher administrative charges despite the directive becoming legally effective.
High Court Ruling Reinforced GSA Directive
According to the Association, the High Court on July 10, 2026, dismissed an application filed by the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG) and others seeking to restrain the implementation of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority’s Regulatory Directive issued on May 11, 2026.
IEAG stated that the Court affirmed the directive had already taken effect upon issuance and remains valid, operational, and fully enforceable, requiring all shipping lines and their agents to comply with the approved GH¢720 Container Administrative Charge per TEU.
Alleged Excessive Charges Raise Concerns
The Association cited invoices allegedly issued by Pacific International Lines (PIL) and MSC Ghana Limited as evidence of continued non-compliance. According to IEAG, one importer was charged GH¢4,000 as a Container Release Order fee for a single 40-foot container by PIL, while MSC Ghana Limited allegedly charged GH¢3,870.46 as an Administrative Import Fee for a single 40HC container.
IEAG argued that these amounts exceed the approved regulatory cap and violate the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).
Association Calls for Sanctions and Refunds
The Association urged the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to immediately institute enforcement proceedings against all shipping lines charging above the approved amount. It also called on the Authority to seek enforcement through the High Court under Section 47 of Act 1122, impose all available sanctions, order refunds of excess charges collected since the directive took effect, and publish the names of all non-compliant operators.
According to IEAG, decisive action is necessary to restore confidence in Ghana’s regulatory framework and protect importers, exporters and consumers from excessive port-related costs.
Warning of Possible Industrial Action
The Association warned that if enforcement measures are not implemented promptly, it may explore lawful options including industrial action and the possible suspension of activities at Ghana’s ports to protect the interests of its members.
IEAG maintained that no company is above the laws of Ghana and stressed that enforcement of the directive would demonstrate the effectiveness of the country’s legal and regulatory institutions.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a transparent, competitive and efficient shipping environment while backing efforts to reduce the cost of doing business in Ghana.
