The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) and other members of the Joint Business Forum have clarified that the industrial action by freight forwarders and clearing agents at the country’s ports has not been suspended, contrary to reports circulating after recent engagements with government officials.
In a statement issued on April 14, 2026, the group said discussions held with the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, did not result in any agreement to call off the strike.
The forum explained that the meeting, held on behalf of the Ministries of Transport and Finance, was aimed at persuading industry players to suspend the action ahead of an emergency session scheduled for Thursday, April 16. However, it stressed that no consensus was reached to halt the ongoing industrial action.
“The strike action which commenced on Monday, April 13, remains in full force,” the statement reaffirmed.
According to the group, freight forwarders and clearing agents continue to withdraw their services, halt the payment of duties, and effectively disrupt normal operations at the ports.
While the Joint Business Forum indicated it has agreed to pause any further planned escalations out of respect for the upcoming negotiations, it emphasized that the current strike remains unaffected and will continue until concrete solutions are achieved.
GUTA, alongside associations representing freight forwarders, customs brokers, and traders, pointed to persistent concerns including inconsistent customs duty assessments, delays in cargo clearance, high demurrage costs, and weak dispute resolution mechanisms.
It described the situation as creating what it termed an “unsustainable business climate” for businesses operating in the sector.
The forum reiterated its readiness to participate in the emergency meeting with government, but maintained that withdrawal of services will not be lifted until meaningful outcomes are reached.
It also urged the public and stakeholders to disregard claims that the strike has been suspended, insisting that port operations continue to face significant disruption.
