The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has welcomed the government’s plan to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the ports but insists that port-related taxes must first be streamlined to ensure the technology’s success.
In a statement, GUTA said it supports the use of AI to enhance efficiency and trade facilitation, describing the initiative as a “positive step for modernising port operations.” However, the association cautioned that without addressing existing tax challenges at the ports, the benefits of AI may be undermined.
“We reiterate our request that all taxes at the port be rationalised before the implementation of AI systems, as promised,” the union added.
GUTA stressed that traders already face heavy financial pressures from updated VAT rules and that unresolved port charges could further burden businesses.
The association said it remains open to dialogue with the government to ensure that technological reforms and tax policies complement each other.
