Tema Port has officially become a 24-hour operation, allowing importers to clear goods even at 2 a.m., according to Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Kwasi Sarpong.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition, he said the GRA, in collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and other state agencies, has fully embraced President John Dramani Mahama’s flagship 24-hour economy program at the port.
“So the 24h+ is one of the key flagship programs that President John Mahama has launched, targeting industrialisation, job creation, wealth creation, and ultimately domestic tax revenue. At GRA, we see ourselves as a key partner in the success of this program. Together with GPHA and other stakeholders, we have already embraced the 24-hour economy at the port,” Mr. Sarpong stated.
He explained that while customs had operated round-the-clock even before the official launch, the challenge had been with other institutions involved in clearance, such as the Standards Board, Food and Drugs Authority, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
“We’ve worked with these institutions and integrated them into our Customs ICON platform, giving all government agencies access to port operations 24 hours a day,” he said.
Mr. Sarpong noted that the vision of a single-window operation at the port is now closer to reality. “The single window means all agencies working on one platform at the same time. Agencies that were previously outside the window have now been brought on board, allowing full 24-hour operations at Tema Port,” he added.
When asked if importers could clear goods at 2 a.m., he replied, “Yes. Customs and GPHA were trained for readiness, and all other agencies are now integrated. Tema Port is fully operational 24 hours for clearing goods.”
He added that GRA has engaged shipping lines and banks to ensure a seamless process. “Filing and paying taxes is online. You can estimate duties two weeks before your goods arrive and pay from your desk. Physical clearance at the port is now the only remaining step, which is fully operational to support the 24-hour system,” Mr. Sarpong explained.
Acknowledging that the rollout could face initial challenges, he stressed that the implementation of the president’s vision is already underway. “GRA is a key component of the twin-fire economy, facilitating trade and business activities. While new initiatives may have challenges, we are committed to implementing the 24-hour program at Tema Port,” he said.
Source: Abubakar Ibrahim
