The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has appealed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to delay assenting to the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2024 until stakeholders’ concerns are addressed.
In a statement, Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of GUTA, said the group was not consulted on critical aspects of the Act, including registration of shippers and shipping service providers, and submission of notice of shipment.
“The final draft was issued to stakeholders only after Parliament had approved the Bill, leaving us with no opportunity to provide input,” Dr. Obeng said.
He also expressed concerns about the reintroduction of the Advance Shipment Information System, which the Business Community had previously resisted.
“Our position on this has not changed. The information sought by GSA is of no relevance to their operation,” Dr. Obeng emphasized.
The business community is seeking resolution of these issues before the President’s assent, citing concerns that Legislative Instruments cannot override the Act.
“We urge the President to withhold assent until all issues raised are resolved,” Dr. Obeng stated.
