Stories and facts

First established in 1974 as the Ghana Shippers’ Council and obtaining a new identity in 1998 to match evolving legislation, the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) emerged as the voice and guardian of the country’s shippers across marine and inland transport routes.

Under the Ministry of Transport, GSA relies on a robust structure of a central Secretariat, shippers’ committees, and a Governing Board, all focused on protecting cargo owners while ensuring greater fairness and transparency in trade logistics.

The Authority stands as the main defender of importers and exporters, consistently stepping in to streamline industry charges, address service quality challenges, and provide vital regulatory guidance for half a century.

In 2024, GSA’s fiftieth year coincided with sweeping legislative reform through the new Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act (Act 1122), which not only replaced the founding decree but also extended oversight to air and road cargo operations.

With these enhanced powers, the Authority now manages port tariffs, monitors border processes via digital solutions, and categorizes shippers for improved service delivery.

Marking its golden jubilee, the Authority mapped out a future committed to modern infrastructure, highlighted by the Boankra Inland Port, and initiatives supporting environmentally responsible trade.

As GSA leads efforts in professional development, green logistics, and closer links with local business, it remains pivotal to Ghana’s ambitions on the global trading stage—advancing competitive, transparent, and sustainable movement of goods.

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