Private sector upbeat about cut in port inspection agencies

The Ghana Chamber Of Commerce has welcomed the government’s move to reduce the port inspection agencies from 16 to three by July 1, 2018.

This is expected to improve the efficiency at the ports with the paperless system.

Speaking at the launch of the 2nd Chamber Business Awards 2017, the president of the chamber, Nana Dr. Appiagyei Dankawoso I, said the move would ensure reduction in the turnaround time for businesses and eliminate corruption.

This, he noted will lead to increased commercial opportunities and investment, facilitating export diversification, strengthening ties between nations, and creating employment opportunities and improving livelihoods, among others.

The three agencies to handle the inspection activities at the ports include; the Ghana Standard Authority (GSA), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the customs division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

The President of the Chamber added his voice to that of many businesses on the recent fall of the cedi against major trading currencies.

He called on the government to fix this depreciation to ease the cost of doing business.

Despite the challenges confronting the private sector, Nana Dr. Appiagyei Dankawoso I noted that as the government executes its policies and programmes, the private sector operators need to find innovative ways to remain competitive.

Speaking on the award scheme, he said it has become important for businesses to become competitive as they gain recognition for their exceptional achievements and innovative services or product.

The 2nd Chamber Business Awards 2017, dubbed; “Empowering the Private Sector to Move Ghana beyond Aid”, is aimed at acknowledging and celebrating key businesses and personalities who have contributed meaningfully to business practice in ghana, as well as, to further inspire and promote the entrepreneurial spirit in the Ghanaian by highlighting the success stories of outstanding awards winners, among others.

The awards will be done in three sections; where the first section of the awards will have 23 categories [Agribusiness, Arts and Culture, Banks, Savings and Loan, Micro Finance, Rural Banks, Oil and Gas, Telecommunication, Road Transport, among others], with emphasis on excellence and quality in service and product delivery.

The second section of the awards will have three categories, including; Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Chamber Business Man of the Year, and Chamber Business Woman of the Year.

The final section will be a special award to the deserving Chamber member.