President Mahama Reinforces Commitment to 24-Hour Economy and Port Efficiency
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to collaborating closely with the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders to effectively implement the nation’s 24-Hour Economy Policy. This policy aims to optimize economic activities by ensuring continuous operations at key entry points, including ports, airports, and land borders. President Mahama acknowledged the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) progress in initiating the 24-hour operations at the ports and urged other relevant agencies to expedite their alignment with the policy to achieve comprehensive implementation. The President emphasized the vital role efficient port operations play in the success of the 24-Hour Economy Policy, recognizing ports as crucial gateways for trade and economic activity. He highlighted the government’s focus on facilitating seamless and efficient operations at these entry points to maximize the policy’s impact.
During a courtesy call by the leadership of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders, President Mahama reflected on previous efforts to address bottlenecks at the nation’s ports. He recalled initiatives during his first administration to expand the Tema Port, ultimately leading to the construction of a new, modern port facility. The new Tema Port, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, was lauded for its efficiency and enhanced operational capacity. The President also mentioned expansion work undertaken at the Takoradi Port, resulting in increased capacity that the government aims to fully utilize. These infrastructure developments underscore the administration’s commitment to modernizing port facilities and optimizing their operational efficiency.
Addressing tax-related concerns, President Mahama reiterated the government’s commitment to removing nuisance taxes, citing the e-levy as an example of fulfilled promises. He further highlighted the ongoing efforts to streamline Value Added Taxes (VAT) to enhance transparency and simplify tax calculation and payment. The President noted the complexities arising from varying VAT rates and emphasized the need for a more straightforward and easily comprehensible system. He assured the public that the Finance Minister would provide an update on VAT rationalization during the Mid-Year Review Budget, aiming to improve compliance and eliminate confusion. This commitment to tax reform reflects the government’s dedication to creating a more conducive business environment.
President Mahama underscored the importance of plugging loopholes and leakages in revenue generation, highlighting the direct link between increased revenue and improved infrastructure development. He emphasized that efficient revenue collection enables the government to invest in infrastructure projects that enhance the quality of life for Ghanaians. This focus on revenue optimization demonstrates the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and its dedication to utilizing public funds effectively for national development. The President’s remarks highlight the interconnectedness of efficient port operations, tax reforms, and revenue generation as crucial elements in achieving sustainable economic growth.
Mr. Stephen Adjokatcher, President of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders, led the delegation that visited the Presidency to congratulate President Mahama on his electoral victory. The meeting provided a platform for the Institute to raise pertinent issues affecting the shipping sector in Ghana, seeking the President’s intervention and support in addressing these challenges. Mr. Adjokatcher’s presence signifies the importance of collaboration between the government and key stakeholders in the shipping industry to foster a thriving maritime sector. This engagement underscores the government’s commitment to open dialogue and constructive partnerships with industry representatives.
In sum, President Mahama’s engagement with the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing port efficiency, streamlining tax systems, and optimizing revenue generation. These efforts, combined with the focus on implementing the 24-Hour Economy Policy, demonstrate the administration’s dedication to creating a conducive environment for economic growth and improved living standards for Ghanaians. The collaboration with industry stakeholders and the emphasis on infrastructure development further reinforce the government’s commitment to fostering a robust and sustainable economy. The meeting served as a platform for productive discussions and the identification of key challenges facing the shipping sector, paving the way for collaborative solutions and continued progress in achieving the nation’s economic goals.
