The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) is calling on Parliament to disregard any report presented by the Transport Ministry as the outcome of stakeholders’ engagement on the Shippers Authority Amendment Bill.
According to a press release by IEAG’s Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, the report does not fully represent the views and inputs of various associations in the shipping and maritime sector.
IEAG alleges that the Transport Ministry failed to engage with key stakeholders in the shipping sector, including associations like the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, the Trade Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG), Kumasi Business and Shop Owners Association, and the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana.
These associations were listed as stakeholders to be consulted but were never invited to provide their input on the 2024 Shippers Authority Amendment Bill.
The bill, if passed, is said to grant sweeping powers to the Ghana Shippers Authority to regulate the shipping sector.
IEAG believes that the bill contains several anomalies that could potentially undermine the industry. They criticize the Ministry’s approach as “appalling” and urge Parliament to ensure that all associations and stakeholders in the shipping and maritime sector have their views and inputs included in the engagement report presented by the Transport Ministry.
Despite the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana advocating for amendments to the Shippers Authority Act to enhance its effectiveness, they express disappointment at being sidelined in the consultation process.
IEAG emphasizes the importance of inclusive engagement and calls for transparency in the handling of the Shippers Authority Amendment Bill.
