FABAG raises larm over slower offloading and higher costs at Tema Port
The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has raised concerns over growing delays in the offloading and clearance of bulk and bagged goods at the Tema Port, warning that the situation is disrupting supply chains and pushing up costs for businesses.
In a statement FABAG urged the Tema Port management, the Minister of Transport and other relevant authorities to urgently address the problem.
According to the association, the delays are largely due to a shortage of unskilled labor needed to offload goods. The workers, who usually handle this task, have been on strike over compensation disputes.
While temporary workers have been brought in, current offloading capacity has fallen sharply, handling only about 200 metric tonnes per day, compared to the usual minimum of 2,000 metric tonnes.
The reduced pace has caused longer clearance times and higher demurrage charges for importers. FABAG warned that these rising costs could affect the prices and availability of key food and beverage products, particularly staples such as rice and sugar.
The association also cautioned that if the delays continue, some importers may divert shipments to Togo’s Lome Port, which could increase smuggling risks and revenue losses for the government.
FABAG urged Tema Port management, labor representatives and relevant state authorities to engage in urgent dialogue to resolve the dispute and restore efficient port operations, reduce financial pressure on businesses, and ensure a steady supply of food and beverages to the Ghanaian market.
