Ghana Shippers’ Authority Defends New Regulatory Powers Under Act 1122
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has begun firm enforcement of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122), amid growing industry discussions over its implications for the shipping and logistics sector.
In a statement issued Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the Authority responded to criticisms surrounding its new regulatory mandate. The GSA’s transformation from a service-oriented body into a full regulator stems from the enactment of Act 1122, which was passed by Parliament in July 2024 and signed into law by the President in October that year.
Under the new law, all shipping service providers including shipping lines, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and clearing agents are required to submit proposed fees, tariffs, and charges to the GSA for prior review and approval. The Authority disclosed that it has already begun enforcing this provision, rejecting certain fee proposals deemed to lack commercial justification.
Addressing concerns that the new regulatory posture could hamper trade activity, the GSA emphasized that its approach is consultative, not punitive. It explained that its reviews involve detailed investigations, public hearings, and broad stakeholder engagement to ensure fair and transparent pricing.
The statement also highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Bank of Ghana (BoG) following complaints from shippers and freight forwarders about some shipping lines applying foreign exchange rates arbitrarily. A high-level meeting involving the GSA, BoG, and industry stakeholders was convened on July 15 to address the issue, with a formal directive from the central bank expected later this week.
To ensure the smooth implementation of Act 1122, the GSA said it is also working with regulators across the air, sea, and land transport sectors to draft a Legislative Instrument (LI) that will operationalise the law.
The Authority reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of industry players while positioning Ghana as a competitive and efficient trade hub within the region.
