We support Publican AI system – Importers and Exporters Association

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has declared its support for the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) System introduced at the country’s ports, following a series of stakeholder engagements with government and relevant agencies.

In a statement issued on April 9, 2026, the Association said recent attempts to suggest it maintains opposition to the system were misleading and based on outdated information.

The IEAG explained that concerns it previously raised in 2025 were rooted in the need for broader stakeholder consultation, as well as issues relating to data security, transparency, and system integration.

It noted that those concerns were addressed through engagements with the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), which it described as constructive and responsive to industry input.

“As a result of these consultations and the good faith shown by government in responding to stakeholder concerns, the IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System, which has since been rolled out,” the statement said.

The Association further acknowledged that the implementation phase has recorded some operational challenges, but stressed that such issues are common in major technological reforms and are being addressed by the relevant authorities.

It also highlighted the expected benefits of the system, including improved revenue mobilisation, enhanced transparency, reduced revenue leakages, and the minimisation of unethical practices at the ports.

The IEAG cautioned against attempts to recycle its earlier position to create misleading narratives, saying such actions distort its current engagement with government and the trade community.

It urged stakeholders to support the implementation of the system in the national interest, adding that it remains committed to reforms that improve efficiency and competitiveness at the ports.

The statement was signed by the Executive Secretary of the IEAG, Samson Asaki Awingobit.

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