EFFAG demands crackdown on shipping lines flouting GH¢720 container fee cap

The Exim Frozen Foods Association of Ghana (EFFAG) has called on the government and the Ghana Shippers' Authority (GSA) to take immediate enforcement action against shipping lines allegedly charging container fees above the approved limit.

EFFAG says some shipping companies are disregarding a GSA directive that caps the Container Administrative Charge (CAC) at GH¢720 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) for both import and export containers.

In a press statement issued on July 27, 2026, the association said the directive remains valid after the High Court dismissed an injunction application filed by the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG) and 17 others seeking to halt its implementation.

EFFAG said the continued decision by some shipping lines to charge above the approved rate amounts to a disregard for regulatory authority and the rule of law.

GPRTU warns of 30% fare increase amid rising fuel costs

"This is no longer a matter of commercial disagreement or a technical dispute over tariffs. It is a direct and calculated act of disrespect against a lawful regulatory directive and a court of competent jurisdiction," the association stated.

EFFAG warned that continued non-compliance could increase the cost of doing business, disrupt cargo clearance, delay the movement of perishable goods, and ultimately drive up food prices.

The association, whose members import frozen food products, said unpredictable charges, in addition to demurrage and other port-related costs, threaten businesses and could affect the availability and affordability of food in Ghana.

The group advised traders not to pay more than GH¢720 per TEU to shipping agents and urged freight forwarders to insist on the approved rate.

It also encouraged importers and exporters to retain invoices as evidence for possible refunds where excess charges have been paid.

Reconsider proposed 30% transport fare increase – COPEC urges GPRTU

EFFAG called on the Ministry of Transport and the GSA to act swiftly, warning that failure to enforce the directive could undermine confidence in Ghana's shipping sector.

The association further warned that it would escalate the matter through measures including industrial action, a boycott of non-compliant shipping lines, public mobilisation, and legal action if the directive is not enforced.

DR/MA