The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has dismissed claims suggesting it remains opposed to the rollout of the Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) System at the country’s ports, describing such assertions as misleading and outdated.

In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, the Association said attempts by some individuals and groups to rely on a December 18, 2025 media publication to portray the IEAG as विरोधing the system do not reflect its current position.

According to the Association, concerns it raised in 2025 were valid and centred on inadequate stakeholder consultation, as well as issues relating to data protection, transparency, and system integration.

“At the time, the Association, together with 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,” the statement noted.

The IEAG, however, indicated that subsequent engagements between government—through the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)—and key stakeholders have been extensive and productive.

These consultations, it said, addressed critical concerns earlier raised and demonstrated government’s commitment to strengthening the implementation framework of the AI-driven system.
“Following these engagements and the good faith demonstrated by 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 Association stated.

While acknowledging that the implementation phase has encountered some operational challenges, the IEAG noted that such issues are typical of major technological and policy reforms.

It added that ongoing efforts by authorities to resolve these challenges, including continued stakeholder engagements, reinforce confidence in the system’s long-term effectiveness.

The Association further highlighted the potential benefits of the Publican AI System, citing improved revenue mobilisation, enhanced transparency, reduced leakages, and the minimisation of unethical practices at the ports.

It described the system as a critical component in modernising Ghana’s trade facilitation architecture and supporting broader economic growth.

The IEAG also cautioned the public and stakeholders against attempts to recycle outdated positions of the Association for “narrow or parochial interests,” warning that such actions misrepresent its stance and undermine national progress.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 emphasised.

Reaffirming its commitment, the IEAG said it will continue to support policies and reforms aimed at improving efficiency at the ports, reducing bottlenecks, safeguarding national revenue, and promoting a fair and competitive trading environment.

It urged all stakeholders to back the successful implementation of the Publican AI System in the national interest.