Publican AI deployment conducted with stakeholder engagement - Finance Ministry

The Ministry of Finance has defended the deployment of the Publican AI system in import clearance, amid concerns from industry stakeholders, particularly members of the Institute of Freight Forwarders.

The introduction of the AI-driven system is part of the government’s broader plan to modernise customs procedures, improve efficiency at ports, and strengthen revenue assurance in the importation process.

However, the rollout has faced pushback from freight forwarders, who have raised questions about the consultation process and the potential impact on their operations.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, April 9, Victor Kofi Baidoo, Head of Revenue Assurance at the Ministry of Finance, stressed that the deployment of the Publican AI system was preceded by extensive stakeholder engagement.

“We met the importers and freight forwarders on the deployment. We invited all trade union associations, and held a session at the Oak Plaza Hotel. The Deputy Finance Minister officially informed and invited them. I presented the Publican AI system and demonstrated how it interrogates and presents information,” he explained.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) also formalised the framework for implementation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) issued to all ports and stations on March 10. The directive, titled “Directive on the Use of the Publican AI System for Imports Clearance Assessment,” makes the system mandatory for all import clearance processes.

Under the directive, the Publican AI system will be integrated into key customs operations, including cargo inspection, valuation, and final assessment, ensuring that all procedures align with the system’s analytical outputs and supporting accurate calculation of duties and taxes on imported goods.