The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has dramatically reversed its earlier opposition to the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) System at the country’s ports, declaring its full support following months of government engagement.
In a forceful press statement issued on April 9, 2026, the IEAG dismissed recent claims that it remains opposed to the system as “misleading, outdated, and do not reflect the Association’s present stance.”
The association acknowledged that its initial concerns in 2025 – over lack of consultation, data security, and transparency – were legitimate. However, after extensive talks with the Finance Ministry and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the tone has shifted.
“The IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System,” the statement read, crediting the government’s “good faith” and “constructive” engagements.
While admitting “some operational challenges” during the rollout, the association stressed that such issues are common with major reforms. It highlighted the system’s potential to boost revenue, cut leakages, and reduce unethical practices at the ports.
“The Association will not allow itself to be used as a tool for propaganda,” the IEAG warned, urging the public to disregard anyone recycling its old position for “narrow or parochial interests.”
The IEAG reaffirmed its commitment to policies that enhance efficiency and protect national revenue, calling on all stakeholders to back the AI system “in the national interest.”
