Customs begins stakeholder talks on 24-hour operations at Tema Port
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has commenced engagements with shipping lines and logistics service providers as part of preparations to implement the government’s 24-Hour Economy policy at Tema Port.
The discussions took place during a stakeholder meeting held in Accra on Monday, May 25, 2026, where the Commissioner of Customs, Aaron Kanor, called on key industry players to help address operational challenges and support the move towards full round-the-clock services at the port.
Participants at the meeting included major shipping lines, terminal operators, and technology partners involved in port operations.
According to the Commissioner, Tema Port remains a critical gateway to Ghana’s economy, making efficient 24-hour operations essential to reducing costs and improving cargo movement.
Although some digital services, including clearance systems and duty payments through Ghana.gov, already operate continuously, several physical services still function on limited schedules, with many operators depending on extended hours rather than full night shifts.
Stakeholders identified delays in documentation and late payments by clearing agents as one of the main causes of congestion at the port, noting that most transactions are still concentrated during daytime working hours.
Mr Kanor therefore encouraged clearing agents to complete invoice processing earlier, while urging shipping lines to strengthen night-shift operations and collaborate with multiple banks to facilitate payments at all hours.
The meeting also examined operational difficulties associated with the recently introduced Manifest Business Requirement, including concerns over manual vehicle chassis number entries, transit cargo processing, and strict name-matching requirements for consolidators.
Stakeholders further raised concerns over penalties imposed for manifest amendments. In response, Customs officials stated that many of the penalties could be avoided through accurate initial declarations.
The Commissioner disclosed that government may consider reviewing some of the regulations and penalty structures as part of broader legal reforms currently under consideration.
International shipping companies such as Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd, alongside technology firm Ghana Link, agreed to develop proposals aimed at supporting extended staffing arrangements and 24-hour payment systems.
“The 24-Hour Economy policy is a government directive requiring the full commitment of all stakeholders,” Commissioner Kanor stated.
He added that the ultimate goal is to ensure cargo moves through the port within a single day.
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