The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has pledged to swiftly reduce prices of goods if the government effectively addresses the high shipping charges and port fees that continue to burden businesses.
According to the Association, the elevated charges at Ghana’s ports have been a significant factor in driving up market prices.
GUTA has commended the government for recent efforts aimed at pushing shipping lines to align their charges with prevailing rates across the West African sub-region.
Speaking on PM EXPRESS Business Edition on Joy News, GUTA’s 1st Vice President, Clement Boateng, told host George Wiafe that traders are eager to reflect lower operational costs in pricing — but need decisive action from the state.
President Mahama Intervenes
The assurances follow President John Mahama’s directive to the Transport Minister, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, and the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, to curb unauthorised port charges.
President Mahama’s move was prompted by persistent complaints from businesses over unapproved and excessive fees.
Mr. Boateng described the intervention as “timely and commendable,” adding that shipping charges in Ghana remain unfairly higher than in neighbouring countries such as Togo, Benin, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria.
“This is not fair and it has to stop. That is why we fully back the action by President John Mahama,” he stated.
Cedi Gains and Spare Parts Prices
Mr. Boateng also disclosed that GUTA members have already started implementing a second phase of price reductions following the recent appreciation of the cedi.
He said spare parts dealers, in particular, have slashed prices — with items that previously sold for GH¢1,500 now going for about GH¢1,200.
“I can promise you that when you go to the market, you will realize that items have gone down in line with our promise to adjust prices from July this year,” he assured.
He encouraged consumers to compare prices across shops to compel even more reductions, dismissing claims that traders were refusing to reflect the cedi’s gains in their pricing.
Source: Joy Business
