The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Prof Ransford Gyampo, has initiated an investigation into reports that some shipping lines are imposing an emergency conflict surcharge on cargo.

The development follows complaints circulating on social media alleging that certain shipping companies had introduced additional charges linked to emerging global tensions.

In a response to the reports, Prof. Gyampo said the Authority had not received any official communication from shipping lines regarding the alleged surcharge.

“We have not officially been informed about any Emergency Conflict Surcharge by any shipping line,” he stated.

He explained that shipping lines, as owners and operators of vessels, determine their own international freight charges, while the Ghana Shippers Authority regulates the local charges imposed by the shipping companies operating within Ghana.

Prof. Gyampo noted that he first became aware of the issue through a complaint shared on social media late at night and immediately took steps to address it.

According to him, he has already contacted the complainant and requested documentary evidence to substantiate the claims.

“As CEO, I have not slept throughout the night after seeing the complaint. I have reached out to the complainant and demanded the necessary documentary evidence,” he said.

He added that the Authority has begun preliminary investigations to verify the allegations and determine the appropriate course of action.

Prof. Gyampo stressed that the Ghana Shippers Authority has not imposed, approved or collected any such surcharge and assured the public that the matter will be thoroughly investigated.