The Food and Beverage Industry Association of Ghana (FABAG) has launched a strong criticism of international shipping lines operating in Ghana, warning that companies unwilling to comply with the country’s laws should exit the market.
In a strongly worded statement, FABAG declared its “unequivocal support” for the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) as the regulator battles what the association described as “unjustified and excessive charges” imposed by shipping lines.
“The shipping lines should leave the Ghanaian market if they can’t obey the institutional laws of the country,” the association stated.
FABAG said it had taken notice of a suit reportedly filed by some shipping lines seeking an injunction against the enforcement of regulatory measures introduced by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority.
The association described the legal action as “unfortunate, counterproductive, and detrimental to the broader national interest.”
According to FABAG, businesses in Ghana, particularly those in the food and beverage sector, have for years endured excessive port and shipping-related charges.
It said many of these charges have increased the cost of doing business and contributed to rising consumer prices.
“At a time when industries are struggling with high operational costs, exchange rate instability, inflationary pressures, and unfair trade competition, every effort must be made to reduce the cost burden on legitimate businesses,” the statement said.
FABAG commended the Ghana Shippers’ Authority for what it described as its leadership and commitment to promoting “transparency, fairness, and accountability” within the shipping and logistics sector.
The association argued that attempts to block or delay the regulator’s interventions through legal action undermine national efforts to improve Ghana’s business environment and protect local industries.
“The Ghana Shippers’ Authority must be allowed to exercise its lawful regulatory mandate without intimidation or obstruction,” FABAG stressed.
It also called for greater transparency in shipping charges and related fees.
“Shipping charges and related fees must be transparent, justified, and subjected to proper stakeholder consultation,” the statement added.
FABAG further maintained that the interests of Ghanaian businesses and consumers must take precedence over “excessive profit-driven practices that negatively affect the economy.”
The association called on government institutions, trade associations, organised labour groups, and civil society organisations to support the Ghana Shippers’ Authority in its efforts to restore fairness within the shipping and port sector.
FABAG said it remains committed to “constructive engagement” and would continue advocating policies that protect businesses, jobs, investments, and consumers in Ghana.
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