Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has warned that the introduction of the Publican AI system for import clearance is imposing a significant financial burden on traders, with potential ripple effects on consumer prices.
According to GUTA Vice President Joseph Paddy, the new system has contributed to a sharp increase in freight and duty costs, raising concerns among importers and businesses.
Mr. Paddy cautioned that if the situation persists, it could lead to a rise in the prices of goods and services, as businesses are likely to pass on the additional costs to consumers.
He cited instances where a vehicle with a market value of about GH₵150,000 attracts duty values as high as GH₵8 million under the new system. In another example, he noted that a product that previously attracted about $70,000 in duty on a Toyota Voxy is now estimated at approximately GH₵13.7 million.
Questioning the basis for such increases, Mr. Paddy explained that on April 2, a declaration filed for a 2012 Toyota Voxy initially placed the duty value at about GH₵7.7 million, but this has since surged significantly.
He stressed that the situation is creating unnecessary financial pressure on businesses, affecting operations and eroding working capital.
The concerns come despite assurances from the Ministry of Finance, which has defended the rollout of the Publican AI system, stating that it has led to a reduction in some duty values.
However, Mr. Paddy revealed that while authorities claim a 40 percent reduction in certain cases, many importers are instead experiencing increases exceeding 100 percent.
He further criticised the lack of clarity surrounding the appeals process under the new system.
“Previously, we could submit appeals through Customs, but now when you go there, you are referred to the Ministry of Finance, and it is unclear which desk to engage,” he told Joy FM.
Mr. Paddy disclosed that GUTA has submitted several complaints to the Ministry and has also engaged the Commissioner-General in a bid to resolve the concerns raised by traders.
By: Martha Seyram Jackson | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
