GUTA backs new GH¢550 container charge cap to ease port costs

The Ghana Union of Traders' Associations (GUTA) backs a new directive to cap the Container Administrative Charge at GH¢550 per 20-foot container (TEU), effective May 1, 2026.

GUTA says the move is a major step toward reducing the cost of doing business at Ghana's ports. Shippers reportedly paid about GH¢1.69 billion under the charge in 2024 alone. The new cap follows extensive stakeholder consultations involving trade groups, freight forwarders and shipping agents under the framework of the Ghana Shippers' Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122). GUTA estimates annual savings of about GH¢802.5 million for businesses. GUTA also welcomed the decision to denominate the charge in cedis rather than dollars, describing it as a move that will improve transparency and cost predictability.

GUTA described the directive as a starting point in broader efforts to eliminate unfair port fees and restore balance within Ghana's trade environment.