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Kwesi Baffour Sarpong, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers' Authority (GSA), has stated that the amendment of the Shippers' Law seeks to ensure a predictable commercial shipping industry in terms of cost.
He mentioned that the current law does not reflect the contemporary practices, dynamics, and trends in the shipping industry.
"Since its establishment in 1974, the Ghana Shippers' Authority Act has not undergone any review, despite the evolving dynamics of the shipping industry. You will agree with me that the 50-year-old Act urgently needs an amendment," he said.
The CEO made these remarks at a breakfast meeting with Platinum Shippers in Accra.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders who shared their concerns and proposed some amendments.
Mr. Sarpong noted that the Ministry of Transport (MoT) had begun the process to amend the Authority's Establishment Act of 1974 (NRCD 254).
According to the CEO, the amendment aims to empower the Authority to address contemporary issues of concern to industry players, especially shippers, and to strengthen GSA's oversight of the commercial shipping sector.
Mr. Sarpong explained that the review seeks to ensure predictable, commercial shipping and uphold minimum service standards.
He noted that the breakfast meeting provided stakeholders with the opportunity to share their insights on the drafted amendment bill and other concerns with the Authority.
The Ghana Shippers' Authority Drafted Amendment Bill (2024) will empower the Authority to address issues of concern to players within the shippers' industry.
The bill will broaden the scope of the law to include other modes of shipment and transit trade.
