Government mediates Free Zones dispute, pushes balanced enforcement after Customs directive

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has led efforts to resolve concerns arising from a directive affecting operations within Ghana’s Free Zones following a petition from the Association of Free Zones Enterprises.

The engagement was convened after a directive issued by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority temporarily halted the processing and receipt of finished goods into Free Zone enclaves.

The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to address operational disruptions affecting businesses under Commercial Free Zone licences and consignments at the ports, while seeking solutions that balance regulatory enforcement and business continuity.

Commissioner of Customs, Aaron Kanor, explained that the directive was introduced in response to cases of abuse, where some companies were allegedly smuggling finished goods into Free Zones under the guise of lawful operations.

The Minister stressed the need for a balanced approach that addresses infractions without disrupting legitimate businesses operating within the Free Zones regime.

She further called for stronger collaboration between the Ghana Free Zones Authority and the Customs Division, including enhanced joint monitoring within enclaves to ensure compliance and safeguard the integrity of the system.