Change Management at The Port of Tema: A Case Study of Freight Forwarders Attitudes to New Policies.

Abstract

In this era of globalisation and technological advancement, it has become necessary for the simplification, harmonisation and automation of the procedures applied to international trade, particularly the requirements and formalities related to importation and exportation with a view to further expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods, including goods in transit. This research was carried out to assess change management at the Port of Tema, a case study of freight forwarders attitudes to new policies. Simple random technique was used to sample the freight forwarders who were used for the study. A total of 300 freight forwarders were used for the study. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics, mean analysis inferential statistics analysis and regression analysis. Analysis of the data revealed that the Paperless Port System has helped to expedite the procedures involved in freight documentation, subsequently reducing freight clearance at the port and the replacement of the manual processes. The freight forwarders emphasised that they are strongly not against ICUMS port clearing reforms at the Tema port as it is meant to enhance trade facilitation just that there should be broader consultation and key agreements before the introduction and implementation of new policies. From the research, it is evident that the Paperless Port System has positive prospects of improving customs procedures and enhancing port efficiency as it has enhanced documentation, helped in revenue mobilization thereby increased revenue, among others. The research recommends periodic capacity building for all stakeholders as a matter of policy so they become accustomed to new trends and features of the paperless port clearing system. The study concludes that all stakeholders should contribute their quota to make ICUMS a success story and fulfil all trade related regulatory requirements.