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Indigenous freight forwarders have raised concerns over the introduction of an artificial intelligence-driven inspection and clearance system at Ghana’s ports, warning that the reform could disproportionately disadvantage small-scale operators and trigger industry backlash if not carefully managed.
The group, operating under the banner of the Advocate for Indigenous Freight Forwarders, is calling on government and port authorities to maintain a hybrid system that allows both manual and AI-based clearance processes to run concurrently.
Speaking to the media, the Convenor of the group, Godfred Mawuli Tettey (Dr.), cautioned that the full-scale implementation of the new AI system, known as Publican AI risks sidelining members who handle lower volumes of cargo.
“The system appears structured to favor large-volume operators, leaving indigenous freight forwarders who clear smaller consignments at a disadvantage,” he said. “If not addressed, this could generate serious dissatisfaction and resistance within the sector.”
The rollout of Publican AI marks a significant transition toward a data-driven customs regime in Ghana, aligning with global trends in trade facilitation and border management. Authorities have touted the system as a tool to improve efficiency, reduce human interference, and strengthen compliance.
Among its anticipated benefits are faster cargo clearance, enhanced risk detection, reduced revenue leakages, and increased transparency in valuation processes. Officials also expect the system to boost government revenue by tightening enforcement and minimizing loopholes.
However, the Indigenous Freight Forwarders argue that the system’s reliance on automated risk profiling and standardized processes may not adequately accommodate the realities of smaller operators, whose consignments often require flexible, case-by-case handling.
They warn that reduced human discretion under the AI regime could complicate the processing of unique or low-volume shipments, leading to delays, disputes, or penalties that disproportionately affect their members.
“There must be room for manual intervention, especially for smaller consignments that do not fit neatly into automated classifications,” Dr. Tettey stressed.
The group is advocating a dual-track system where AI handles high-volume, large-scale clearances, while manual inspection remains available for smaller shipments. They argue that such an approach would ensure inclusivity and prevent marginalization within the freight forwarding industry.
Industry observers note that while automation enhances efficiency, it also introduces challenges, including system dependency risks such as technical failures, adjustment difficulties for stakeholders, and stricter enforcement measures that could increase disputes.
The Indigenous Freight Forwarders have signaled that failure to address their concerns could lead to heightened tensions between the sector and government.
Dr. Tettey warned that continued implementation without stakeholder accommodation “could draw the wrath of indigenous operators,” potentially disrupting port operations and undermining the broader goals of the reform.
As Ghana moves to modernize its customs processes, analysts say the success of the Publican AI system will depend not only on technological efficiency but also on its ability to balance innovation with fairness and inclusivity across all levels of the freight forwarding ecosystem.
