Freight Forwarders declare 4-day strike at Tema Port over AI system concerns

A coalition of trade and freight forwarders’ associations has announced a four-day strike at Tema Port, raising concerns about potential disruptions to cargo clearance and port operations.

The industrial action, scheduled from Tuesday, April 14 to Friday, April 17, 2026, is in protest against what the group describes as serious operational challenges linked to the rollout of a new AI-driven public system at the port.

According to the coalition, the system has resulted in increased duties and inefficiencies, making it difficult for traders and freight forwarders to operate smoothly.

They are therefore demanding its immediate suspension for a comprehensive review.

Speaking at a press briefing, the General Secretary of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders, Paul Kobina Mensah, said members had reached a unanimous decision to withdraw their services, warning that the action could be intensified if their concerns are not addressed.

“We are embarking on a four-day coordinated strike from Tuesday, April 14, to Friday, April 17. After that, traders may be asked to extend the action into the following week if our concerns are not addressed,” he said.

The strike is expected to disrupt key port activities, including the payment of duties and the processing of imports, as members have been directed to suspend both operations.

“We are not going to pay duties. Some payments are done online, and we are monitoring that. We will also not be processing online payments,” he indicated.

Mensah explained that continuing to clear goods under what they describe as an unstable system is not feasible, hence the decision to halt operations.

Beyond the immediate concerns, he called for broader reforms in port management, proposing the establishment of a high-level regulatory body to improve coordination among key institutions, including finance, trade, transport, and safety agencies.

He stressed that a more structured and transparent governance system, supported by clearly documented procedures, would help streamline operations and improve administrative and appeals processes.

“We need a professionalised system with fully documented and published procedures so that everyone understands the process,” he said.

NA/VPO

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