The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has rejected claims by management of the Tema Port that challenges at the bulk and bagged cargo section have been resolved, warning that conditions at the port have significantly worsened.

In a statement issued on January 5, 2026, the association said its members continue to experience severe operational disruptions, contrary to public assurances that the situation at the port has stabilised.

“The performance of the bulk and bagged section is currently the worst we have witnessed in over 23 years,” FABAG stated, describing the situation as a major threat to manufacturing and food supply chains.

According to the association, labour productivity has collapsed dramatically, with vessels now discharging an average of about 200 metric tonnes per day, compared to a minimum of 2,000 metric tonnes per day in previous years.

“This represents nearly a 90 per cent drop in productivity, with serious consequences for importers, manufacturers and ultimately consumers,” the statement noted.

FABAG said the introduction of a 24-hour shift system has failed to yield improvements, attributing the persistent inefficiencies to inadequate staffing, low worker morale and unresolved labour concerns.

The association further expressed concern over worsening vessel turnaround times, reporting prolonged berthing delays, slow cargo evacuation and inconsistent offloading schedules. It warned that these delays are already attracting heavy demurrage charges.

“Three vessels currently discharging at the port are incurring significant demurrage costs, which will inevitably be passed on to manufacturers and consumers,” FABAG cautioned.

The group criticised what it described as a growing gap between official pronouncements and the realities faced by port users, warning that downplaying the problem undermines confidence in port operations.

FABAG stressed that inefficiencies at the Tema Port have broader implications for inflation, food security and the competitiveness of local industries, given the port’s central role in Ghana’s supply chain.

The association called for urgent and transparent engagement between the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), port management, labour unions and key stakeholders. It also demanded independent verification of operational data, including vessel turnaround times and cargo discharge rates.

FABAG said it remains open to constructive dialogue but insisted that immediate corrective action is required, warning that continued delays at the bulk and bagged section pose a serious risk to businesses and consumers alike.