Importers in Ghana can now pay their duties online weeks before their goods even arrive at the port.
The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, says the new system allows importers to estimate and pay their duties up to two weeks in advance.
He explains that traders can now make payments from their homes or offices, without stepping foot at the port. The only step left is physical clearance.
Mr. Sarpong says this reform is part of the government’s 24-hour economy policy at the ports, designed to boost trade, drive industrialisation, and grow revenue.
He reveals that Tema Port now runs full 24-hour operations. Customs had always worked around the clock, but other agencies were not ready.
According to him, GRA has now brought all the agencies onto one digital platform, creating a single-window system for trade.
“So yes, if your goods arrive at 2 a.m., you can clear them” he confirmed
Mr. Sarpong adds that shipping lines and banks have also joined the system to ensure smooth operations.
He admits there may be initial challenges but insists the online duty payment and round-the-clock port operations are working successfully.
