The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) is urging the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the National Identification Authority (NIA) to swiftly resolve their ongoing standoff, warning that the situation could severely disrupt cargo clearance at the country’s ports.

The call follows the GRA’s recent disconnection from the NIA’s Identity Verification Service (IVS) platform, a move that has sparked growing concern among key players in the maritime trade and logistics sector.

Speaking at the Association’s 11th Anniversary celebration and the launch of its new website, IEAG Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, underscored the urgent need for cooperation between the two state institutions to avert economic disruption.

“Mr. Chairman, this development, as reported, raises serious concerns about data security and potential disruptions to critical services. The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana urges the leadership of the Ghana Revenue Authority to take pragmatic steps to resolve this issue amicably with the NIA,” he said.

“This is especially crucial given the potential impact on businesses, particularly in the maritime trade sector. From a professional standpoint, if the NIA proceeds with deleting its data from the GRA server, it could severely disrupt port operations,” he added.

GRA, NIA at Odds Over Alleged Debt

Meanwhile, the GRA has strongly denied claims by the NIA that it owes over GH¢376 million in arrears—an allegation the NIA says prompted the disconnection of GRA from its IVS platform.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, August 5, the GRA expressed “great surprise” at the NIA’s assertions and described the alleged debt as lacking the necessary regulatory and governance backing to be considered legitimate.

According to the GRA, internal reviews show that the said amount relates to legacy liabilities arising from engagements prior to 2025, which, it insists, were never formally approved.

As the standoff continues, stakeholders in the import-export sector fear extended delays and disruptions if the two state agencies fail to reconcile their differences promptly.