Shippers operating through Tema Port have expressed frustration over prolonged delays in evacuating containers from Terminal 3 (T3) to inland depots, warning that the situation is disrupting supply chains, increasing costs, and undermining business confidence.
According to complaints lodged with the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, containers are being held up for extended periods before clearance and onward movement, leading to mounting demurrage charges and storage fees. Importers and exporters say the delays are affecting delivery schedules and raising operational costs for logistics companies.
The Authority has acknowledged the concerns and is engaging port operators, customs officials, and other stakeholders to address the bottlenecks. Industry sources attribute the delays to congestion at T3, limited trucking capacity, and bureaucratic clearance procedures.
Tema Port, which handles more than 70 percent of Ghana’s imports and exports, was expanded with the commissioning of Terminal 3 to ease congestion and improve efficiency. However, shippers argue that persistent delays are eroding the port’s competitiveness. With Ghana positioning itself as a regional trade hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), logistics bottlenecks at Tema risk pushing traders toward alternative ports in neighbouring countries.
Past complaints about port inefficiencies have often centred on customs clearance, trucking shortages, and inadequate coordination between operators and shippers. The current situation underscores the need for integrated digital systems and stronger collaboration to ensure smooth cargo movement.
Shippers warn that unless urgent measures are taken, the delays will continue to impose heavy economic costs, with higher prices likely to be passed on to consumers.
