FABAG warns of delays, rising costs at Tema Port

The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has raised alarm 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 driving up costs for businesses.

In a press release dated December 29, 2025, the association called on the Director General and management of the Tema Port, the Minister of Transport, and other relevant authorities to urgently address the problem.

According to FABAG, the delays are largely due to a shortage of unskilled labour needed to offload goods from ships. The workers, who traditionally handle this task, have been on strike following a dispute with port management over compensation.

Although port authorities have brought in temporary workers, FABAG says the current offloading capacity has dropped sharply. Temporary labour is reportedly able to offload only about 200 metric tonnes per day, compared to the usual minimum of 2,000 metric tonnes.

The reduced pace has led to prolonged clearance times and high demurrage charges for importers. FABAG warns 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 situation persists, some importers may divert their shipments to the Lome Port in Togo. This, FABAG said, could increase the risk of smuggling goods back into Ghana, resulting in significant revenue losses for the government and weakening trade controls.

FABAG is urging the Tema Port management, labour representatives, and relevant state authorities to engage in urgent dialogue to resolve the dispute. The association says a swift and lasting solution is needed to restore efficient port operations, ease financial pressure on businesses, and ensure a steady supply of food and beverages to the Ghanaian market.