Freight forwarders and clearing agents have been directed to cease payment of duties and lay down their tools from Monday, April 13 to Friday, April 17, 2026, as part of a nationwide trade action declared by the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA).

In a press statement signed by its President, Clement Boateng, on Sunday, April 12, 2026, GUTA said the decision follows unsuccessful engagements with government over disruptions linked to the implementation of the Publican AI system at the country’s ports.

The association noted that traders continue to face significant operational challenges, despite ongoing discussions aimed at addressing their concerns.

GUTA cited “unpredictable and excessively high duty assessments, prolonged delays in cargo clearance, mounting demurrage and rent charges, and the near absence of an effective and accessible system for resolving valuation disputes” as key issues affecting its members.

“These conditions have created an unsustainable trading environment and pose a serious threat to business continuity,” the statement said.

In addition to the strike directive, GUTA advised its members to temporarily halt all import activities until what it described as clarity and predictability are restored within the system.

The association also called for the immediate suspension of the Publican AI system in its current form and urged authorities to undertake a comprehensive review of its implementation.

“We urge the Government to act decisively to restore confidence, stability, and fairness within Ghana’s trade regime,” the statement added.

The planned action is expected to disrupt port operations if widely observed, as traders intensify pressure on authorities to review the system.