The Coalition of Concerned Importers, Exporters, Traders and Freight Forwarders has called on government to suspend plans to implement the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note and Shipment Processing Note (ECTN/SPN) system.
In a statement dated April 4, the group warned that reintroducing the policy could drive up the cost of doing business and reverse recent efficiency gains in Ghana’s ports and logistics sector.
The coalition expressed concern over renewed efforts by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority and the Inter-Ocean Maritime and Logistics Institute to advance the initiative, including proposals to begin a pilot phase.
According to the group, proponents of the ECTN/SPN system have yet to provide clear evidence of its benefits to industry stakeholders. It also criticised the process as lacking transparency and meaningful consultation.
The coalition cautioned that introducing the system at this stage could compound existing operational challenges, particularly as businesses continue to adjust to the rollout of the Publican AI customs platform.
It further recalled that the policy had previously been withdrawn after failing to meet expectations, warning that any attempt to revive it without addressing past shortcomings could erode confidence in government decisions.
While signalling its willingness to engage authorities in dialogue, the group stated that it would pursue all lawful avenues to protect the interests of its members if its concerns are not adequately addressed.
