FFAG threatens legal action against shipping lines over container charges

The Freight Forwarders Association of Ghana (FFAG) has warned that it will take legal action against shipping lines and their agents if they continue to charge container administrative fees above the GH¢720 cap set by the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA).

In a statement released on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, FFAG said shipping companies that ignore the regulator’s directive risk facing court action and other legal sanctions, insisting that the charges place an unnecessary financial burden on importers and freight forwarders.

“If SOAAG and its members or constituent entities continue to impose charges contrary to the GSA directive, FFAG will pursue all lawful avenues available to protect the interests of freight forwarders, importers and the wider trading community,” the association said.

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FFAG disclosed that the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG) had earlier gone to court to stop the implementation of the GSA directive but failed.

“FFAG has become aware that the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana (SOAAG) sought an injunction to restrain the implementation of the GSA’s directive on the cap of GH¢720.00 on container administrative charges. The said application has since been dismissed by an Accra High Court,” the statement noted.

The association believes that any attempt by shipping lines to continue charging above the approved ceiling amounts to a disregard for the regulator’s directive and the court’s decision.

It has therefore called on the Ghana Shippers Authority to strictly enforce the directive and take stronger measures against any company that refuses to comply.

“FFAG specifically urges the GSA to consider taking the necessary steps to cite SOAAG for contempt of court, where the legal requirements for such an action are satisfied.”

According to the association, failure to enforce the directive could undermine confidence in Ghana’s regulatory and judicial systems while increasing the cost of doing business at the country’s ports.

FFAG also urged shipping lines, their agents and other port operators to immediately comply with the directive by charging no more than the approved amount.

“FFAG consequently calls upon SOAAG and all affected shipping lines, agents and other operators to immediately desist from any charges that are inconsistent with the applicable GSA directive and to conduct their operations in accordance with the laws and regulatory requirements of Ghana,” the statement added.

ANAS/MA

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