Ghana Ports go digital: Importers can now pay duties online ahead of cargo arrival

Importers in Ghana no longer have to wait for their goods to arrive at the port before paying customs duties. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has rolled out a new online system that allows payments to be made up to two weeks in advance, a move officials say will ease trade and boost efficiency at the ports.

Commissioner-General of GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, announced the reform, explaining that the system enables importers to calculate and settle duties from their homes or offices without physically visiting the port.

The initiative forms part of the government’s 24-hour economy policy, which is being piloted at Tema Port. According to Mr. Sarpong, Customs had already been working round the clock, but other agencies were not aligned. Now, through a single-window digital platform, all state agencies—including the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority—have been integrated to provide seamless operations.

He stressed that Tema Port is now fully operational on a 24-hour basis, meaning cargo arriving at any hour—even at 2 a.m.—can be processed and cleared.

The GRA has also engaged shipping lines and commercial banks to ensure smooth implementation, while urging stakeholders to prepare for minor challenges as the system scales.

The online payment system and round-the-clock port services are expected to cut delays, reduce costs for traders, and drive confidence in Ghana’s trade facilitation environment.