Mr Michael Luguje, the Director General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, has disclosed that the paperless port systems at the port have attained commendable success.
According to him, the implementation of the system has led to the reduction of delays in cargo clearance. He further noted that the systems introduced by the Akufo-Addo administration has also helped in saving revenues.
Speaking in an interview, he attributed the success of the systems to a collaboration between Port Authorities and Customs. This, he revealed, has helped port authorties to prevent any cargo from exiting without proper documentation.
Mr. Luguje further disclosed that prior to the paperless programme, the process of cargo evaluation, duties and evaluation involved cumbersome paperwork.
“That created a number of loopholes and leakages that revenues were leaking. But the paperless programme that came as far back as 2017 and 2018; actually significantly closed a number of the loopholes.”
Paperless systems curbs delay
The Director General of the Ports further extolled the benefits of the paperless system as one which has significantly reduced delays. He further averred that, prior to this, these frustrations most often translated to high cost in clearance of goods, thereby affecting trade volumes.
“But there a few other areas because the paperless came in to try to integrate the systems between the port authorities, the custom, and all other state agencies that play a role in cargo clearances. It also sought to reduce delays. Delays suddenly cost money, and when it cost money it frustrates trade. Frustrating trade means volumes will reduce as a result, cargo will be diverted to other routes.
“So, the paperless projects sought to compel the port authorities, the customs, and all other state organizations to integrate their systems to ensure that we do more online clearance of cargo and payments. That went on, we have achieved significant milestone.”
Michael Luguje
In September 2017, the Ghana Revenue Authority, GCNET and West Blue Consulting implemented the paperless port system.
Import process flow is now done via an online system, which captures all relevant import information on a database.
Maritime industry players laud benefits of paperless systems
Elsewhere, Players in Ghana’s ports and maritime industry have deemed the pandemic an opportunity for the industry to go paperless.
The Corporate Monitoring Manager of GPHA, Garvin Amarvie, explained that the pandemic has “been a big lesson” for everyone.
“Hitherto, we always want to work on site. It has given us the test of time to be able to look at how we can polish our paperless systems”.
Speaking on a panel discussion on the Effects of the Temporary Restrictions on Port Clearance Operations in Ghana, representatives from the industry agreed to its benefits.
Other key agencies in Ghana’s port clearance chain includes the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and the GRA Customs Division.
Present also was the Association of Customs House Agents of Ghana, and the Ship Owners and Agents Association of Ghana.
They all acknowledged the value of having a paperless system in the port and outlined how their various outfits are currently making use of electronic platforms in their transactions and operations.
“Paperless is more important to us even now than ever. It has been very useful. You can easily sit in the comfort of your home, and do the processes,” Yaw Kyei, President of ACHAG indicated.
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