Election slowing port operations

The upcoming presidential and parliamentary election is slowing operations at the ports, according to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shippers Authority, Dr. Kofi Mbia.

Dr. Mbia adds that many traders are hesitant to import goods due to uncertainties over the elections.

“We have been monitoring the development over the period, the second quarter did quite well and the third quarter has seen some little improvement. But when we look at activities at the port presently we realize there is not that sharp activity that characterizes this time of the year.”

Dr. Mbia added that, “We fear that once again the election fever; people having the wait and see attitude, people may not be exporting as much as they may would have wanted to and that is why for us the climate for confidence and peace is very important. I think that everyone should help to promote that climate."

“That climate for peace, that climate of predictability, convenience is necessary for every importer and every businessman. The moment there are issues where people are not sure, they hold on and when they hold on business does not improve,” Dr. Mbia told Starr Business at the launch of the Ghana National Single Window (GNSW) Cash Xpress Card.

The card is to ease transactions through the Ghana Single Window. The initiative was a collaboration between Westblue Consulting and ECOBANK.

The electronic system is to facilitate transactions as well as further reduce the engagements between shippers and the customs officials.

The Ghana Single Window is a secured trade platform that facilitates the exchange of information between the Government of Ghana and the logistics community.

The system will run parallel to the manual system of duty payments.

Finance Minister, Seth Terkper said the move will reduce the cost of doing business in the country.