Transport Minister to meet GUTA on Thursday over Publican AI
The Minister for Transport, Joseph Nikpe Bukari, is scheduled to meet with the leadership of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) on Thursday, April 16, to discuss growing concerns related to the rollout of the Publican AI system at the country’s ports.
This meeting occurs amid increased tension in the trading and logistics sector, following GUTA’s directive that led freight forwarders and clearing agents to go on a sit-down strike on Monday, April 13.
The strike protests what members see as inadequate consultation and unclear guidelines surrounding the new system’s implementation.
The Publican AI system, introduced to improve efficiency and transparency in import clearance, has faced strong opposition from key industry players.
After a meeting with the Ghana Shippers Authority on Monday, April 13, GUTA’s Vice President, Joseph Paddy, told Citi News that the association had formally called for a temporary suspension of the Publican AI system until further discussions with the transport minister.
“Apart from the strike by our agents, we have many activities planned. We also told the chief executive officer that the system should be suspended, but he assured us that the transport minister was interested in the matter. Unfortunately, he has traveled, so we’ve been told to wait two days. The minister will meet us on Thursday morning to resolve these issues.”
The upcoming meeting is expected to address key topics such as the implementation framework of the Publican AI system, stakeholder concerns about its effects, and potential adjustments or timelines to facilitate the transition.
Since port operations are crucial to Ghana’s economy, any extended disruptions could significantly impact trade, supply chains, and businesses across the country.
