The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has postponed the implementation of the revised Container Administrative Charge to July 1, 2026, following concerns raised by stakeholders in the shipping and logistics industry over rising port costs.
The new levy was originally scheduled to take effect on May 1, 2026. However, the Authority said the postponement will allow for broader consultations with shipping lines, freight forwarders, importers, exporters and other industry players.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, May 13, the GSA explained that the additional engagement period will help develop a pricing structure that addresses industry concerns while ensuring Ghana’s ports remain competitive in the regional trade and logistics sector.
As an interim measure, the Minister of Transport has directed the immediate enforcement of a temporary cap on the charge. Under the directive, the Container Administrative Charge must not exceed GH¢720 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) for both imports and exports.
The decision is expected to bring some relief to businesses that have consistently raised issues about escalating port-related fees and their impact on the cost of doing business.
Industry operators have warned that continued increases in administrative and logistics costs could weaken Ghana’s competitiveness and further burden businesses already grappling with high transport and supply chain expenses.
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority has urged all stakeholders to comply with the temporary arrangements while consultations continue ahead of the final decision expected in July.