IEAG rejects claims Ghana’s ports enable importation of substandard cables

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has rejected claims that Ghana’s ports are being used to import substandard electrical cables, saying the assertion does not reflect the strict controls in place.

This follows remarks reportedly made by Prof. John Garchie Gatsi, Board Chairman of the Energy Commission.

In a statement signed by IEAG Executive Secretary Samson Asaki Awingobit on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Association said it “wishes to respectfully express concern over this assertion,” stressing that imported electrical goods are held in customs bonded warehouses for inspection, testing and certification before release.

“Under this system, consignments remain under customs control until conformity assessment procedures are completed and statutory approvals granted,” it stated.

IEAG argued that most substandard cables enter the market through “unapproved routes and porous land borders,” and called for stronger monitoring of bonded warehouses, improved cargo tracking, and strict release authorisation procedures.