GUTA Suspends Planned Strike Action Against Publican AI System After Talks with Ghana Shippers’ Authority
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority has announced that the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations will hold off on the full implementation of its intended strike action against the Publican AI system, following a high-level engagement between both parties.
The meeting, which took place at the Ghana Shippers’ House in Accra on Monday, April 13, 2026, brought together executives of GUTA, representatives from freight forwarders’ groups, and the Chief Executive Officer of the GSA, Ransford Gyampo, to deliberate on concerns raised by traders regarding the rollout and operation of the system.
Earlier, in a press release issued on Sunday, April 12, 2026, and signed by GUTA President, Clement Boateng, the association had instructed freight forwarders and clearing agents to halt the payment of duties and suspend operations from Monday, April 13 to Friday, April 17, 2026.
The directive formed part of a nationwide protest aimed at compelling authorities to suspend the Publican AI system to allow for broader stakeholder consultations.
Following the engagement, however, GUTA agreed to postpone the full enforcement of the action to pave the way for further discussions, including a planned meeting with the Minister of Transport, Joseph Nikpe Bukari, scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026.
At the meeting, Prof. Gyampo stressed the need for continuous dialogue and cooperation in addressing challenges within the sector, assuring stakeholders that their concerns would be handled through the appropriate institutional processes.
He reiterated the GSA’s commitment to fostering a transparent and efficient trading environment, while ensuring that ongoing reforms align with the broader economic interest.
GUTA officials, while expressing appreciation for the engagement, maintained their demand for the suspension of the Publican AI system, calling for intensified consultations to address concerns over increasing duties, which they argue are driving many traders and manufacturers out of business.
