GSA to Roll Out Mandatory Shipper Registration in August 2026
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) has disclosed that all importers and exporters will be required to register with the Authority before clearing goods through customs.
The directive, effective August 3, 2026, will be enforced through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) and is supported by Section 26 (1) of the GSA Act, Act 1122 (2024). The law states that no shipper may clear cargo unless registered with the Authority.
According to GSA, under the new arrangement, declarants acting on behalf of registered shippers can proceed with clearance. However, for shippers without valid registration, declarants will be billed GHC 150.00 to cover registration for a 12 month period.
“This fee must be paid before cargo can be cleared,” it stated.
The Authority noted that shippers may also register directly at any GSA office by completing a registration form, submitting a Certificate of Incorporation (for companies) or a valid Ghana Card (for individuals), and paying the GHC 150.00 fee.
“Certificates will be issued within one week, either in manual or electronic format,” GSA added.
The GSA said that registration is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and does not need to be renewed for each shipment or declaration. Business details of registered shippers will be shared with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division to facilitate smooth clearance.
Margaret Adjeley Sowah, ISD
