The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has raised concerns over persistent delays in clearing bulk and bagged goods at the Tema Port, warning that continued disruptions could force importers to divert cargo to neighbouring Lomé, increasing the risk of smuggling and revenue losses.

In a statement issued on December 29, FABAG said the delays are already disrupting supply chains and raising costs for businesses across the food and beverage sector.

“The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) urgently wishes to draw the attention of the Director General and Management of the Tema Port, the Minister of Transport, and the general public to growing concerns among its members regarding significant delays in the offloading and clearance of bulk and bagged goods at the Tema Port,” the association said.

FABAG attributed the delays to a shortage of unskilled labour needed to offload goods from vessels. The workers, the association noted, have been on strike following disagreements with port management over compensation rates. The temporary labour deployed by the port, according to FABAG, can offload only about 200 metric tonnes per day—far below the usual operational capacity of at least 2,000 metric tonnes.

The reduced output has led to prolonged vessel stays and escalating demurrage charges, adding financial pressure on importers. “Some members of FABAG are facing increased operational costs, which could have downstream effects on prices and availability of food and beverage products, particularly rice and sugar,” the statement said.

The association expressed concern that unresolved delays may push importers to use Lomé Port in Togo as an alternative. “Such a move could weaken border controls and encourage smuggling, potentially resulting in significant government revenue losses and undermining trade regulations,” FABAG warned.

To address the situation, the association is calling for urgent dialogue among all parties. “We are urging the Director General of the Tema Port, Tema Port management, relevant authorities, and labour representatives to engage promptly to resolve this dispute,” the statement said.

FABAG stressed that a swift and sustainable resolution is essential to restore port efficiency, reduce financial burdens, and ensure the smooth flow of food and beverage supplies to the Ghanaian market.