The rollout of an artificial intelligence-based customs classification and valuation system at Ghana’s ports marks a significant step in the country’s effort to strengthen revenue mobilisation.
Early indications suggest that the Publican Trade Solution is already delivering results, flagging undervalued imports and helping the state to recover revenue that would otherwise have been lost.
At a time when domestic revenue remains critical to fiscal stability, such gains are both timely and necessary.
The system’s ability to detect discrepancies in import declarations and generate an estimated $3 million in additional daily revenue during its pilot phase highlights the scale of leakages that previously existed within the customs process.
By aggregating global pricing data and applying real-time analysis, the technology reduces the scope for under-invoicing and misclassification, practices that have long undermined customs revenue.
Beyond revenue gains, the efficiency improvements are equally important. Reducing the time required for classification and valuation decisions from hours to minutes could improve trade facilitation at the ports.
Faster processing times can lower the cost of doing business, reduce congestion and enhance Ghana’s competitiveness as a trade hub in the region.
However, while the promise of the system is clear, its success will depend on how well it is integrated into the broader customs ecosystem and applied at all entry points. Currently, the system operates only at the Tema Port.
The Graphic Business, however, believes technology alone cannot solve systemic challenges unless it is supported by proper implementation, stakeholder buy-in and continuous oversight.
Concerns raised by importers and clearing agents about delays and system downtimes must be taken seriously.
If such delays are linked to existing systems or user errors, they affect confidence in the reform. Trade relies on predictability. It is the position of the Graphic Business that any perception that the new system slows down clearance or introduces uncertainty could undermine its acceptance among key stakeholders.
We also think that the decision to shift dispute resolution from individual officers to a committee is a positive step towards reducing discretion and limiting opportunities for collusion. However, transparency in decision-making is essential if the system is to gain credibility.
At the same time, clear communication and training for importers, freight forwarders and customs officials will be critical to minimise errors, particularly in areas such as Harmonised System code classification.
Another important consideration is cost. The government’s decision to absorb the cost of the system rather than pass it on to importers is a pragmatic one. It ensures that the drive to increase revenue does not inadvertently raise import costs, which could have broader implications for inflation and business operations.
Ultimately, the introduction of AI into customs operations represents a shift toward data-driven governance. It aligns with broader efforts to digitise public services, reduce human discretion and improve accountability. If properly managed, it can close longstanding revenue gaps and strengthen public finances.
The Graphic Business, therefore, calls on the port users — the importers, freight forwarders, etc. — not to rush to write off the system, as the case may seem to appear.
We remember a meeting with journalists in which the trade associations themselves, after engagements with the GRA and the authorities, admitted that the system was welcome and had their buy-in.
It is, therefore, surprising to see the backlash coming just two weeks after the system officially went live.
We believe the country has taken a bold step in modernising its customs processes.
The task now is to ensure that the gains in revenue and efficiency are sustained, while building confidence among businesses that depend on the ports every day.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh
