The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has announced a regulatory cap on the Container Administrative Charge imposed by shipping lines and their agents, following months of stakeholder consultations and complaints over high port fees.
According to a statement issued by the Authority on Thursday, May 20, 2026, the GSA initiated a comprehensive review of the Container Administrative Charge under the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024, Act 1122.
It noted that the review was prompted by persistent concerns from importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and trade associations regarding excessive charges for cargo release at Ghana’s ports.
Reports from the Authority indicated that after industry analysis, comparative studies with other West African ports, and engagements with stakeholders, including the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana, it adopted a regulatory approach that retains the container-based charging structure but introduces a ceiling to prevent arbitrary pricing.
Consequently, the GSA notified shipping lines and agents on March 20, 2026, of a regulatory cap of GHS 550 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit for the Container Administrative Charge, effective May 1, 2026.
The statement further indicated that the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, later directed a deferment of the full implementation to July 1, 2026, while approving an interim cap of GHS 720 per TEU pending a final determination.
The Authority noted that following the notification, some shipping lines and agents, who are members of SOAAG, mounted strong opposition to the directive.
According to reports, their actions included petitions, engagements by the Coalition of Concerned Shipping Line Workers, and legal action filed on May 22, 2026, seeking an injunction against the directive.
The GSA stated that it remains unfazed and committed to its mandate as regulator of the commercial shipping industry.
It added that it would mount a spirited defence against any legal action aimed at undermining the government’s vision to reduce the cost of doing business in Ghana.
The Authority called on the shipping public to remain calm and assured stakeholders of its continued commitment to navigating the matter in collaboration with all parties.
