By Evelyn ARTHUR
The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) has held its 28th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Koforidua, with discussions centred on the accelerating pace of technological change within the logistics and freight forwarding industry.
The AGM, themed “Digital transformation in freight forwarding: Leveraging technology for enhanced service delivery”, examined how digital tools are reshaping service delivery, compliance and competitiveness across the supply chain.
Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan, commended GIFF for its cooperation, professionalism and advocacy, which he said have contributed significantly to customs reforms and a more efficient trading environment.
He urged freight forwarders to align fully with the government’s 24-hour economic policy, which he noted is already operational at the ports.
“By aligning your services with this policy, we can jointly reduce congestion, enhance competitiveness and position Ghana as a preferred trade and logistics hub within the subregion,” he said.
Brigadier General Annan stressed that revenue mobilisation remains vital to national development and underscored the need for strict compliance in declarations and documentation. He added that the ongoing digitisation of customs processes demands the highest levels of professionalism and integrity.
“Digital transformation is no longer optional; it is the backbone of modern trade,” he said.
GIFF President and Vice President of FIATA, Stephen Adojatcher, announced that the next 12 months would mark a period of major digital transformation for the industry, describing it as a strategic imperative.
He indicated that technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital documentation, automated customs systems and predictive analytics would soon become standard tools for freight forwarders.
“Our operational models must evolve to meet the expectations of clients who demand speed, transparency and accuracy,” he stated.
Mr. Adojatcher reaffirmed GIFF’s commitment to advocating for a harmonised national logistics digitisation ecosystem that removes duplication, cuts system inefficiencies and improves revenue assurance.
He further disclosed that the GIFF Research Hub would be revitalised to support structured research and evidence-based advocacy. The Hub, he noted, will work closely with academia, Customs, port authorities and international partners to strengthen the clearance process.
“The Hub will become the beating heart of our forward movement, the place where ideas are tested, problems diagnosed and solutions scientifically crafted,” he said.
The AGM also featured solidarity messages from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana Shippers’ Authority, Ghana Link Network Services and sister associations including the Customs House Brokers Association of Ghana and the Association of Customs House Agents Ghana.
The post GIFF holds 28th AGM appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.
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