Policy think tank to mediate between freight forwarders, shipping lines

A maritime sector think tank, the Ghana Chamber of Shipping (GCS), has stepped in to offer its platform and expertise to mediate the ongoing disputes between various freight forwarder associations and shipping lines in the country. 

The Chamber, in a statement issued by its Acting President, Capt Aaron Turkson (retd), expressed deep concern over the recent protests by various freight forwarder associations and offered to use its platform to allow the parties to dialogue and compromise on a mutually beneficial agreement that would benefit the maritime industry.

Demands

The freight forwarders have raised several concerns, including the demand to abolish demurrage charges on weekends and public holidays, and refund fees received by the shipping lines within those periods.

The associations also want the shipping lines to be compelled to negotiate tariffs in accordance with regulations, Regulation Five of the Ghana Shippers Authority Regulation 2012 (L1 2190).

Similarly, the groups want arbitrary fees, including local administrative charges, container cleaning fees and empty container fees to be eliminated, while also ensuring the provision of a 24-hour service from shipping lines, and prohibiting their involvement in customs house brokerage.

Chamber

The Chamber noted that the concerns about the pegging of shipping line fees to the US dollar, which had been a significant point of contention between the freight forwarders and shipping lines, were particularly relevant given the recent significant increase in the cost of doing business.

"A harmonious and productive working environment between the freight forwarder associations, shippers, and the shipping lines is crucial for the overall health of Ghana's maritime sector," the statement stated.

The Chamber acknowledged the legitimate concerns raised by the freight forwarders and called for a peaceful resolution to emphasise the importance of a harmonious and productive working environment between the parties for the overall health of Ghana's maritime sector.