Businesses operating through Ghana’s ports are expected to save over GH¢800 million annually after the Ghana Shippers’ Authority introduced a cap on the Container Administrative Charge at GH¢550 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU).

The new directive, which comes into force on May 1, 2026, is part of efforts to cut down port-related costs and ensure greater transparency in fees charged by shipping lines.

Figures from the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations indicate that shippers paid roughly GH¢1.69 billion in such charges in 2024. With the cap in place, annual savings are projected at about GH¢802.5 million, providing significant cost relief for importers, exporters, and manufacturers.

GUTA, in a statement released on April 22, described the policy as a timely intervention to address persistent concerns about excessive and often unjustified charges at the ports.

Originally introduced in the late 1980s when port infrastructure was limited and vessels relied on onboard equipment, the Container Administrative Charge has remained in place despite major upgrades to port facilities—fueling calls for its review.

The Authority said the decision followed broad stakeholder consultations, including shipping lines and freight forwarders, and is backed by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122).

In a further shift, the charge will now be priced in Ghana cedis instead of US dollars, a move expected to improve cost certainty and limit the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on businesses.

GUTA has pledged to work with regulators to ensure compliance, warning that any breaches of the approved cap will attract sanctions.

Stakeholders say the move could enhance the competitiveness of Ghana’s ports while easing financial pressure on businesses.