The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIIF), Aflao District, has given the Ministry of Finance a deadline of Tuesday, April 7, 2026, to address concerns over recent trade and customs measures, warning that failure to respond will compel the association to take lawful action.
Mr Abijah Osabutey-Ayor, Chairman of GIIF Aflao, said the measures, including the introduction of the Publican Digital Inspection Solution and centralisation of customs valuation functions, have created operational and financial challenges for freight forwarders and customs house agents in Ketu South and Ketu North Municipalities.
He explained that the AI-powered system, intended to detect undervaluation and fraudulent declarations, has resulted in inflated customs values, frequent disputes, and excessive duties, while the lack of an operational appeals mechanism leaves traders without recourse.
Mr Osabutey-Ayor also criticised the blanket ban on selected commodities at land borders, including rice, sugar, cooking oil, and pharmaceuticals, describing it as inconsistent with Ghanaian law, ECOWAS trade rules, and AfCFTA obligations.
Highlighting the economic and employment consequences for border communities, he called for the decentralisation of customs valuation, recalibration of the AI system to international standards, and establishment of a transparent dispute resolution process.
While affirming GIIF’s willingness to engage in dialogue, the association warned that continued inaction by the Ministry would force them to exercise all lawful measures to safeguard the interests of their members.
