The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has announced plans for a nationwide trade action in protest against ongoing disruptions linked to the government’s implementation of the Publican AI system.
In a press statement issued by its President, Clement Boateng, the association expressed “grave concern” over what it describes as an increasingly unstable and unsustainable trading environment affecting businesses across the country.
According to GUTA, engagements with government authorities have so far failed to address key challenges confronting traders.
These include prolonged delays in cargo clearance, unpredictable and excessively high duty assessments, and rising demurrage and rent charges at the ports.
The association also cited the lack of an effective and accessible mechanism for resolving valuation disputes, which it says has worsened the situation for importers and clearing agents.
“These conditions have created an unsustainable trading environment and pose a serious threat to business continuity,” the statement stressed.
As a result, GUTA is calling on all freight forwarders and clearing agents to suspend payment of duties and lay down their tools from Monday, April 13 to Friday, April 17, 2026.
The association has also advised its members to temporarily halt all import activities until clarity and predictability are restored within the system.
In addition, GUTA is demanding the immediate suspension of the Publican AI system in its current form, urging government to undertake a comprehensive review of its implementation.
The association further appealed to authorities to act swiftly to restore confidence, stability, and fairness within Ghana’s trade regime, warning that failure to do so could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s business community and overall economy
