Freight forwarders protest high operating costs

Freight forwarders in Tema staged a protest on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, against what they described as exploitative practices by shipping lines operating in Ghana.

The demonstration, organised by the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) in collaboration with the Association of Customs House Agents of Ghana, the Freight Forwarders Association of Ghana, the Customs Brokers Association of Ghana, and a coalition of other trade associations, aimed to raise awareness of the excessive fees and unfair practices imposed by shipping lines.

These charges, they argued, are crippling business operations in the logistics and trade sectors.

Protesters, dressed in red and carrying placards, marched to various shipping lines to present their petitions, with additional copies submitted to the Ministries of Transport and Trade.

The demonstrators voiced their frustrations, highlighting how these fees are driving importers to explore alternative ports, such as Togo’s. One freight forwarder stated, 

In an interview with the media, Nana Asiamah Peprah, Vice Chairman of GIFF, emphasised that these unfair fees are not only hurting businesses but also Ghana’s economy.

He stated, “This demonstration has significant implications for the country’s economy and the future of Ghana’s shipping industry.”

The protesters are demanding reforms, including the prompt payment of refunds and the abolition of container deposits, in order to create a fairer environment for trade.