The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has rejected allegations by the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) that officials circumvent failed due procedures in the auctioning of perishable goods at the ports.
But in a statement, the Authority described as “erroneous” suggestions that importers are entitled to 60 days to clear perishable cargo.
Quoting Section 53(3)(a) of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891), the GRA explained that perishable goods may be disposed of through public auction after 21 days if unclaimed.
“Perishable goods are treated differently from non-perishables and vehicles under the Customs Act,” the statement said. “It is therefore erroneous to indicate that importers have 60 days within which to clear perishable goods.”
The Authority urged importers to use pre-cargo arrival clearance systems to avoid delays and charges, and reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, transparency, and strict compliance with the law in auction processes.
The clarification comes amid growing concerns in the trading community about port procedures, with businesses calling for greater consistency in customs enforcement.
