Operational Collapse at Tema Port Threatens Ghana’s Food Imports – FABAG
By ZED NEWSROOM
The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has raised serious concerns over the state of bulk and bagged cargo operations at the Port of Tema, describing current conditions as the “worst in over 23 years.”
The association’s statement, released on January 5, directly challenges claims by port management that previous operational difficulties have been resolved. According to FABAG, members of the association, who account for a substantial portion of Ghana’s bulk food and beverage imports, continue to face major disruptions at the facility.
Information from within the bulk and bagged cargo section suggests a significant decline in operational performance. FABAG highlighted a dramatic drop in cargo discharge rates, noting that vessels are now unloading only about 200 metric tonnes per day – a stark contrast to the previous minimum average of 2,000 metric tonnes per day. The association described this as a 90% reduction in operational efficiency, with serious consequences for port users.
The introduction of a 24-hour shift system has failed to improve productivity, FABAG added. “Inadequate staffing, low morale and unresolved worker grievances continue to affect throughput and turnaround times,” the statement said.
FABAG also pointed to unprecedented vessel turnaround delays. Ships are reportedly experiencing prolonged berthing periods, slow cargo evacuation, and inconsistent loading and offloading schedules, leading to rising demurrage, storage, and logistics costs. The association noted that owners of three vessels currently discharging bulk and bagged goods are already facing substantial demurrage charges, which will ultimately be passed on to importers, manufacturers, and consumers in Ghana.
The association expressed concern about what it described as a growing disconnect between official statements and the realities on the ground. “Minimising the situation does not solve the problem but rather worsens uncertainty and erodes confidence in port operations,” it said.
Emphasising the national significance of the Tema Port, FABAG warned that inefficiencies have direct consequences for inflation, food security, the competitiveness of local manufacturers, and the country’s broader economic growth. “Public relations statements cannot substitute for real operational improvements,” the statement said.
The association has called for immediate and transparent engagement between the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), port management, labour unions, and key user groups. It also urged independent verification of port performance data, including vessel turnaround and cargo dwell times, alongside urgent corrective measures to restore efficiency, reliability, and predictability.
FABAG reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement but stressed that it will continue to speak out whenever operational failures threaten the survival of local businesses and the welfare of consumers. “The problems at the Port of Tema persist and must be addressed urgently and decisively,” the association concluded.
