By Magdalene Andoh
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has clarified its position on the controversial Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) system, expressing full support for the initiative following earlier concerns.
In a press statement released on 9 April, the association dismissed claims that it remains opposed to the system, describing such reports as “misleading” and based on outdated information from a December 2025 publication.
According to the IEAG, its initial reservations about the AI system were valid at the time, citing limited stakeholder engagement, as well as concerns about data security, transparency and integration challenges. These concerns, the association noted, were shared with relevant authorities to ensure a more robust and effective rollout.
However, the situation has since evolved. The IEAG revealed that extensive consultations between stakeholders and key government institutions, including the Ghana Revenue Authority and the Ministry of Finance, have addressed many of the earlier issues.
“These engagements have been constructive,” the statement said, noting that the government demonstrated a clear commitment to refining and strengthening the system’s implementation framework.
As a result, the association now “unequivocally” supports the Publican AI system, which has already been deployed at Ghana’s ports.
While acknowledging some operational challenges during the rollout phase, the IEAG described such issues as typical of large-scale technological reforms. It also commended authorities for ongoing efforts to resolve these challenges and improve system performance.
The association highlighted several anticipated benefits of the AI system, including improved revenue mobilisation, enhanced transparency, reduced revenue leakages and a decline in unethical practices at the ports. It described the initiative as a key step towards modernising Ghana’s trade facilitation systems and boosting economic growth.
The IEAG further cautioned individuals and groups against circulating outdated positions to serve “narrow or parochial interests”, warning that such actions risk undermining national progress.
“The association will not allow itself to be used as a tool for propaganda,” the statement stressed, reaffirming its commitment to policies that promote efficiency, fairness and competitiveness within Ghana’s trading environment.
The statement was signed by Samson Asaki Awingobit, who urged all stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the system in the national interest.
