The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) says it supports the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) System set up by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to modernise customs operations and curb revenue leakages at Ghana’s ports.
A statement signed by the Executive Secretary of IEAG, Samson Asaki Awingobit, dispelled what it described as attempts by certain individuals and groups to misrepresent the association’s current position on the introduction and implementation of the system, which was launched this year.
“We wish to categorically state that such claims are misleading, outdated, and do not reflect the association’s present stance.
“The IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System, which has since been rolled out,” it said.
Consultation
The association explained that, indeed, it raised concerns in 2025 about the lack of adequate stakeholder consultation, as well as issues relating to data security, transparency and system integration.
It said at the time, the association, alongside other industry players, called for broader engagement to ensure that any technological transition at the ports would be credible, secure and beneficial to all stakeholders.
Following those concerns, the association said the government, through the Ministry of Finance and the GRA, had engaged extensively with industry stakeholders, including the IEAG.
These engagements, the association said, had been constructive, addressing key issues initially raised and demonstrating a clear commitment by the government to refine and strengthen the implementation framework of the system.
“As a result of these consultations and the good faith shown by the government in responding to stakeholder concerns, the IEAG wishes to state unequivocally that it supports the Publican AI System, which has since been rolled out,” the statement said.
The association, therefore, cautioned the public and stakeholders to disregard any attempts by individuals or groups seeking to recycle outdated positions of the association to serve narrow or parochial interests.
“Such efforts not only misrepresent the IEAG but also undermine national progress.
The association will not allow itself to be used as a tool for propaganda or any agenda that does not advance the collective interest of importers, exporters and the Ghanaian economy,” it said.
Benefits
The IEAG underscored the significant potential benefits of the Publican AI System, including enhanced revenue mobilisation, improved transparency, reduction in revenue leakages and the minimisation of unethical practices at the ports.
The system represents a critical step towards modernising Ghana’s trade facilitation architecture and strengthening national economic growth.
The IEAG said it remained committed to supporting policies and reforms that would enhance efficiency at the ports, eliminate bottlenecks, protect national revenue and promote a fair and competitive trading environment.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh