The Acting Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, has called for the removal of VAT and COVID-19 levies on transit cargo, arguing that their continued imposition is hindering trade competitiveness and economic growth.
He made the call during a working visit by the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) headquarters. He believes that such a move would enhance Ghana’s competitiveness as a premier transit hub in the West African sub-region, positioning the country to attract greater international business and strengthen its economic standing.
Attractive ports
He argued that removing VAT on transit cargo would not only make Ghana’s ports more attractive to global trade but also create substantial job opportunities, supporting the government’s ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth and align with its 24-hour economic policy.
He emphasised that the transit trade market was highly competitive, with neighboring ports such as Lome and Abidjan constantly vying for business. He noted that any disruption in Ghana’s port operations, particularly through the imposition of additional levies, could result in businesses shifting to alternative regional ports.
“Since the cargo in question is not destined for Ghana, it stands to reason that removing these VAT levies would not only boost business but also generate additional employment opportunities,” he stated.
He revealed that a joint team, comprising personnel from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and GPHA, had recently traveled to Lome to assess their port systems. This followed a similar visit to Abidjan, where the team studied operational practices in an effort to enhance Ghana’s own port competitiveness and streamline its operations.
He highlighted key areas of focus, including the digitalization of operations, building organizational resilience, and fostering a corporate culture grounded in discipline, fairness, and teamwork. He expressed optimism that these initiatives, coupled with support from government agencies, would propel GPHA to new heights of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Assurance
The Director-General assured that investigations were underway regarding some missing trailors and that due process would be followed, and once the investigations are concluded, all culprits will be held accountable.
In response, the Minister expressed his commitment to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to facilitate the removal of the VAT and COVID-19 levies. He emphasised that the government, under President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership, remained dedicated to revitalizing the country’s economy, with the maritime and port sectors identified as critical pillars in this strategic agenda.
He also lauded Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono’s leadership and urged GPHA staff and management to rally behind him in advancing the Authority’s mission.
Joseph Bukari Nikpe (4th from right) with some management members of GPHA after the meeting
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