Publican AI harming businesses - Adomako-Kissi

The former Member of Parliament for Anyaa Sowutuom, Dickson Adomako-Kissi, has called for the immediate removal of the Publican AI system, warning that its use at the country’s ports is hurting businesses and the broader economy.

His comments follow concerns about the growing cost pressures within Ghana’s import sector, as traders continue to grapple with high operational expenses.

Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Adomako-Kissi criticised the system, arguing that it places excessive financial burdens on importers.

He described the situation as “daylight robbery.”

According to him, instead of improving efficiency at the ports, the policy is worsening conditions for businesses that are already struggling to stay afloat.

He further noted that the artificial intelligence-driven tool is compounding existing challenges in the importation process, insisting that it is “adding salt to injury.”

Adomako-Kissi therefore called for an urgent rollback to the previous system, stressing that the current arrangement is not sustainable for businesses.

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He also warned that the additional costs imposed by the system will eventually be transferred to consumers, as importers adjust prices to offset the charges incurred during clearance.

He further explain that this could worsen the cost-of-living situation for many Ghanaians who are already facing economic difficulties.

“The system is duping people at the port. It is daylight robbery. The Publican AI is adding salt to injury, and I think it should be removed as soon as possible, so that we can go back to what we had. Because with this system, all the additional overhead costs will be passed on to the consumers,” he said.

The Publican AI system, introduced by the Ghana Revenue Authority in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, is aimed at improving customs valuation and inspection processes.

The system became mandatory for all import clearances on March 12, 2026, and is currently operating alongside the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS).