The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has expressed concern over the deteriorating operations at the bulk and bagged cargo section of the Tema Port, describing it as the worst in over 23 years.

This contradicts claims by port management that challenges at the facility have been resolved.

In a statement dated January 5, FABAG said its members, who account for a significant share of Ghana’s bulk food and beverage imports, continue to face serious operational disruptions at the port.

The association reported a severe collapse in cargo discharge rates, noting that vessels are now discharging about 200 metric tonnes per day, compared to a previous minimum average of 2,000 metric tonnes per day.

This represents a 90% decline in operational efficiency with devastating consequences for port users, FABAG stated.

According to the association, the introduction of a 24-hour shift system has failed to improve productivity, with inadequate staffing, low morale, and unresolved worker grievances affecting throughput and turnaround times.

FABAG also raised concern about unprecedented vessel turnaround delays, with ships recording prolonged berthing periods, slow cargo evacuation, and inconsistent loading and offloading schedules.

The association warned that these delays are leading to escalating demurrage, storage, and logistics costs, which will ultimately be passed on to importers, manufacturers, and Ghanaian consumers.

FABAG has called for immediate and transparent engagement between GPHA, port management, labour unions, and key user groups, as well as independent verification of port performance data.

The association stressed that Tema Port is a critical national asset and that inefficiencies at the port have direct consequences for inflation, food security, the competitiveness of local manufacturers, and overall economic growth.

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