Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated the Government's commitment to closely partner with the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders in delivering on the nation's 24-Hour Economy Policy. He said the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) had actually begun the operationalisation of the 24-Hour Economy Policy at the nation's ports, ensuring continuous operations around the clock.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President emphasized the necessity for other agencies to accelerate their efforts in adopting the 24-Hour Economy Policy to achieve a comprehensive implementation at the ports. He noted that the successful implementation of this policy is crucial for efficient operations at ports of entry, airports, land borders, and maritime ports.
During a courtesy call by the leadership of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders at the Presidency in Accra, President Mahama reflected on the challenges faced during his first administration concerning the nation's ports. He highlighted the expansion of the Tema Port, a project undertaken in collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and their partners, NPS, resulting in a new and modern port facility.
The President also mentioned ongoing expansion work at the Takoradi Port, which has led to some excess capacity, and the government's plans to expand its utilization. In terms of taxation, President Mahama discussed the government's efforts to fulfill promises by removing certain nuisance taxes, including the e-levy, and streamlining Value Added Taxes (VAT).
He indicated that a study is underway to simplify and rationalize VAT taxes to ensure transparency and ease of compliance. The Finance Minister is expected to provide an update on these efforts as part of the Mid-Year Review Budget. The President underscored the importance of plugging revenue generation loopholes to improve infrastructure and enhance the lives of Ghanaians.
Mr. Stephen Adjokatcher, the President of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders, led the delegation to the Presidency to congratulate President Mahama on his victory in Ghana's 2024 general election and to bring to his attention issues facing the shipping sector in Ghana for redress.
