The economic landscape in Ghana is facing significant turmoil, largely attributed to an ongoing labor dispute at the Tema Port, the country’s primary maritime hub. This crisis is not only jeopardizing fiscal stability but also threatening food security as importers contemplate shifting operations to the Port of Lomé in Togo.
On December 29, 2025, the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) issued a stern warning regarding severe delays at Tema Port. These disruptions have been primarily caused by a strike of unskilled laborers responsible for the physical unloading of cargo. The workers halted operations following unsuccessful negotiations over their pay, creating a bottleneck that has left many vessels unable to offload essential goods.
Despite authorities attempting to mitigate the situation by employing temporary labor, FABAG criticized these efforts as inadequate, stating that they fail to meet the pressing demands of the supply chain. The organization previously condemned a staggering 25.7% increase in utility tariffs, asserting that the combination of high utility costs and port inefficiencies is creating an untenable environment for businesses.
The offloading capabilities at Tema have dramatically decreased, with current operations reportedly processing only 200 metric tonnes per day—down from a standard minimum of 2,000 metric tonnes. This sharp decline has led to essential products, including staples like rice and sugar, being stranded on ships, resulting in increased prices for consumers and mounting costs for importers.
A director from a prominent import firm in Accra, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed concerns about the financial implications of the delays. “With ships idling at the docks for weeks, the daily fees accumulate, and ultimately, it is the consumer who bears the burden,” he stated.
The inefficiencies extend beyond logistical challenges. FABAG highlighted what it termed a “cancer of inefficiency” within the utility sector. With the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) facing significant financial mismanagement, including an unauthorized budget overrun of GH¢189.2 million, the association argues that the public is being unfairly penalized through rising tariffs.
For everyday Ghanaians, the ramifications of these issues are painfully clear. While some governmental reports indicated a reduction in food inflation, market vendors refute these claims, citing persistent price increases for basic commodities due to shipping delays. In a nation where food costs account for nearly 43% of the Consumer Price Index, such delays are effectively a hidden tax on the most vulnerable populations.
Furthermore, thousands of jobs are at risk as the labor standoff disrupts the economy. The ripple effects of the port crisis threaten employment across various sectors, including logistics and transportation, undermining the government’s 24-Hour Economy initiative aimed at boosting job creation.
As importers look to Togo, the Port of Lomé emerges as a competitive alternative, offering significantly lower container handling fees. This shift not only poses economic risks for Ghana but could also lead to increased smuggling activities through porous borders, further complicating regional trade dynamics.
In light of the escalating situation, FABAG has called for immediate government intervention, urging dialogue among stakeholders to restore efficient port operations. The association emphasizes that resolving this crisis is crucial for maintaining Ghana’s position as a regional logistics hub and ensuring food security.
The implications of the Tema Port crisis extend beyond national borders, serving as a critical litmus test for West African economic integration. The ability of Ghana to navigate these challenges will determine not only its economic recovery but also its role in fostering a collaborative regional trade environment.
