AI port system triggers mixed reactions among stakeholders at Ghana’s ports

The implementation of an artificial intelligence (AI) system at Ghana’s ports has generated mixed reactions among residents, traders, and industry players.

The system, which has been integrated into customs operations, is aimed at enhancing transparency, improving revenue mobilisation, and reducing corruption at the port.

This has, however, been opposed by some industry players, with freight forwarders currently on a four-day boycott of the system.

Meanwhile, some residents and traders of Tema have expressed varying opinions on the issue.

Mr Wiseman Asu, a resident of Tema, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that he supports the initiative, describing it as a necessary step towards improving transparency in port operations.

He said the AI system would modernise revenue collection and help eliminate leakages that had affected state revenue over the years.

Madam Efua Sam, another resident, commended the initiative, noting that it would eliminate human discretion and reduce opportunities for corruption and favouritism.

She said the system could enhance government revenue and support national development.

Mr Kojo Boafo, a businessman, also supported the policy, stating that the use of AI could improve turnaround time for vessels and cargo clearance through faster classification and automated container analysis, which, according to him, would help reduce delays in the movement of goods.

However, Madam Gifty Opoku, a trader at the Tema Central Market, expressed concern about the impact of the system on import duties.

She said some importers had complained that AI-driven valuation was resulting in higher and inconsistent charges that did not reflect prevailing market prices.

She appealed to the government to review the implementation to prevent additional financial burden on traders and consumers.

Mr Osman Adu, another businessman, also disagreed with the implementation, expressing concern that it could lead to job losses among clearing agents and some customs officials, stressing that the policy could increase unemployment if not properly managed.

Government officials have explained that the AI system uses advanced technologies, including data analytics to forecast revenue trends, risk assessment tools to identify high-risk shipments, and automated image analysis to detect undeclared goods.

They added that the system also incorporates Advanced Cargo Information (ACI), which requires shipment details to be submitted at least 24 hours before departure to enhance monitoring and compliance.

Source: GNA

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