Fresh concerns are emerging over growing congestion at the Meridian Port Services (MPS) Terminal at the Port of Tema, with stakeholders pointing to persistent scanning and operational challenges that are delaying cargo clearance and increasing costs for importers.
Information gathered by Citi Business News indicates that a significant number of vehicles and containers selected for examination are unable to proceed through the clearance process because the required scan images are often unavailable.
The challenge has led to a buildup of cargo at the terminal, resulting in longer waiting times for importers, freight forwarders, and clearing agents.
The latest development follows earlier reports of operational difficulties and system downtimes at the terminal, which industry players say have affected cargo handling efficiency and contributed to congestion at the port.
According to sources familiar with operations at the terminal, recurring system disruptions have hampered the smooth processing of cargo, creating bottlenecks in the examination and clearance chain.
The delays are also increasing costs for importers, who continue to incur demurrage, storage, and other related charges while awaiting the completion of clearance procedures.
Questions are being raised about the reliability of some of the terminal’s technological systems, particularly its scanning infrastructure. Despite significant investments in modern equipment, port users claim the scanner frequently experiences technical challenges, especially in generating or retrieving images required for the examination of containers and vehicles.
Stakeholders are calling on MPS and other relevant authorities to urgently address the operational challenges, restore efficiency to the clearance process, and prevent further congestion at the country’s busiest port.
