GRA Refutes Claims of Procedural Breach in Perishable Goods Auction

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has rejected claims by the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) that Customs officials failed to follow due process in the auctioning of perishable goods at the ports.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 27, 2025, the GRA described as “erroneous” the suggestion that importers are entitled to 60 days to clear perishable cargo.
Citing Section 53(3)(a) of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891), the Authority explained that perishable goods may be disposed of through public auction after 21 days if left unclaimed.
“Perishable goods are treated differently from non-perishables and vehicles under the Customs Act,” the statement clarified. “It is therefore erroneous to indicate that importers have 60 days within which to clear perishable goods.”
The GRA further encouraged importers to make use of pre-cargo arrival clearance systems to avoid delays and unnecessary charges. It also reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, transparency, and strict compliance with the law in all auction processes.
The clarification comes against the backdrop of growing concerns within the trading community, with some businesses calling for greater consistency in customs enforcement at the ports.

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