The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has dismissed allegations by the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) suggesting that Customs officials are failing to follow laid-down procedures in the auction of perishable goods at the ports.
In a clarification issued by the Authority, GRA explained that the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891) provides clear guidelines on how both perishable and non-perishable goods are to be handled.
According to the statement: Sections 52, 53, and 59 of Act 891 outline procedures for dealing with imported goods, including vehicles that remain uncleared beyond the stipulated period.
Specifically, Section 53(3)(a) empowers a Proper Officer to dispose of perishable goods by public auction after they have overstayed for 21 days.
Motor vehicles, however, are treated differently under Sections 55, 57, and 59, allowing up to 60 days for valuation and clearance.
The GRA stressed that it is misleading to suggest that importers have 60 days to clear perishable goods. It further encouraged importers to take advantage of the pre-cargo arrival clearance system, which allows duties to be paid before the arrival of shipments. Any discrepancies detected during inspection may attract additional payments.
The Authority reassured stakeholders of its strict compliance with customs laws while upholding its core values of fairness, integrity, responsiveness, service, and teamwork.
