THE TRADERS Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG) has issued a strongly worded rebuttal to what it describes as “misinformation and mischief” propagated by a group calling itself the New Voter Forum.
In a press statement, TAGG accused the group of disseminating false claims about the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), asserting that such actions are politically motivated attempts to derail progress at Ghana’s ports.
TAGG emphasized that ICUMS has significantly improved efficiency and transparency in port operations, benefiting traders and the economy at large. The organization urged stakeholders to focus on constructive dialogue and support systems that enhance trade facilitation.
“We will not allow politically motivated groups to undermine the hard-won gains achieved through systems like ICUMS,” TAGG stated. “The port sector is crucial to our national development, and we must protect it from unwarranted attacks.”
TAGG called on the public to disregard the New Voter Forum’s claims and to support initiatives that promote transparency and efficiency in Ghana’s trade and customs operations.
“Understanding Port Operations Requires More Than Populism”.
In its statement, TAGG asserted that the New Voter Forum lacked the technical knowledge and practical experience to comment credibly on port digitisation and trade facilitation.
“ICUMS was not imposed in secrecy or haste,” the statement read. “It followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including the Ghana Revenue Authority, freight forwarders and customs agents.”
Benefits of ICUMS Are Tangible and Measurable.
TAGG acknowledged that no system is without flaws but firmly defended ICUMS as a net positive for traders and the national economy. The group listed key benefits of the system, including:
● Faster clearing times, saving both time and money
● A unified digital system that reduces human contact and corruption
● Real-time valuation tools to prevent under-invoicing and overcharging
● Better revenue collection for national development
● A data warehouse for analysis and informed decision-making
According to TAGG, the real users of ICUMS – the trading community – have experienced improved transparency, reduced backdoor dealings and greater predictability in their operations.
PRESIDENT OF TRADERS ADVOCACY GROUP GHANA (TAGG).
Technical Glitches and System Failure.
Addressing concerns about downtime, TAGG clarified that occasional technical issues are normal in any digital system, from banking to telecoms. It emphasized that ICUMS operators and the Ghana Revenue Authority are quick to resolve such issues.
No Evidence of Cronyism, Just Growth.
TAGG dismissed allegations of political rent-seeking as baseless and dangerous. “If the New Voter Forum has evidence of corruption, they should report it to the relevant authorities,” said TAGG President David Kwadwo Amoateng. “Wild claims without proof only serve to erode investor confidence and discredit national progress.”
The group also noted that ICUMS has received international recognition, including praise from the World Customs Organisation and interest from other African countries seeking to digitize their ports.
A Call for Constructive Dialogue, Not Political Theatre.
In its concluding remarks, TAGG urged Ghanaians to guard against politicising critical national systems. The group warned that dismantling ICUMS would hurt traders and small businesses the most, dragging Ghana back to an era marked by inefficiency, corruption and delays.
“We invite the New Voter Forum to come to the ports, see the system in action, talk to real traders – not just microphones – and perhaps gain the clarity they currently lack,” said Amoateng.
TAGG reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Ghana Revenue Authority, Ghana Link and other stakeholders to advance a fair and efficient trade environment.
