‘Preparatory work crucial to implement single window policy’

Mr Jacob Gbati, Managing Director, Global Cargo and Commodities Limited, has lauded government for not rushing to implement the single window port clearing policy but painstakingly preparing the ground for a smooth take off.

He however, called on government to consult widely on the issue since stakeholders and the success of the policy would depend on how stakeholders and the general public would appreciate and contribute to its implementation.

Mr Gbati, whose company deals in shipping, clearing, forwarding and haulage, was speaking to the Ghana News Agency in Tema on the single window concept which takes off in 2016.

He called on the various government agencies at the ports to collaborate as non-cooperation or turf wars would defeat the single window concept which among others would improve port turnaround time, resulting in speedy and timely cargo clearance.

According to him, most shippers yearn for faster release of cargo through improved cargo documentation processing, adding “if that happens everyone would be happy”

He asked the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, which is handling the preparatory process towards the implementation of the concept, to be meticulous and research oriented as lessons learnt would be crucial

“Custom should build capacity and ensure that the systems work efficiently,” he said.

The single window concept allows traders to lodge information with a single body to fulfill all import-or-export related regulatory requirements.