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The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) has initiated legal proceedings against the Ship Owners and Agents Association, along with its associated shipping agencies, over allegations of imposing unauthorized charges and escalating costs at the nation’s ports.
According to the Freight Forwarders, the shipping agencies have introduced a series of unapproved fees, including container administrative charges, processing fees, evacuation costs, container washing fees, and demurrage charges.
A writ filed on January 20, 2025, and reviewed by Citi Business News, revealed that the Freight Forwarders claim these charges were unlawfully implemented, despite clear instructions from the Ghana Shippers Authority to halt such additional port fees.
The Freight Forwarders are seeking the following legal remedies:
1. A declaration that the imposition of unapproved charges is unlawful.
2. A declaration that the inclusion of weekends and public holidays in demurrage calculations is illegal.
3. An order mandating the refund of all amounts collected through these disputed charges.
4. Compensation for associated costs, including legal expenses.
5. Any other relief deemed appropriate by the court.
The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders has described this legal action as a necessary measure to safeguard the interests of customers and ensure adherence to industry regulations.
The case is set to be heard in court in the coming weeks.
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