Ghana shippers cite costly delays at Tema Port's Terminal 3

Importers, exporters and logistics firms raised concerns about persistent delays in moving containers from Meridian Port Services (MPS) Terminal 3 to Inland Container Depots, including the Golden Jubilee Terminal, at Ghana’s Port of Tema. The backlog leaves containers at the terminal beyond the free‑storage period, forcing shippers to bear accumulating rent, demurrage and other time‑related penalties.

The issue dominated the Ghana Shippers’ Authority’s second‑quarter Shipper Committee meeting in Accra, which brought together customs brokers, freight forwarders, trade associations and regulators. Participants urged the port operator, terminal managers and government agencies to establish practical timelines, improve coordination and provide transparent information on container transfers. The Ghana Shippers’ Authority reiterated its commitment to support shippers, confirming registration validity for twelve months and highlighting digital initiatives such as the Ghana EasyPASS system to streamline compliance.

Stakeholders warned that the prolonged evacuation hampers supply‑chain efficiency, raises operating costs, reduces the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses and may ultimately increase consumer prices.