Overview of Ghana

1. General Introduction

Ghana’s Maritime Port System – Ghana, located in West Africa, is strategically positioned along the Gulf of Guinea and is one of the most dynamic developing countries in the region. With a population of approximately 32 million and a diverse economy, Ghana is prominent in cocoa production, oil, and minerals. The country is also known for its rich culture and long history.

2. Geographic Location

• Latitude: Approximately from 1° North to 11° North
• Longitude: Approximately from 1° West to 3° East

3. Economic Overview

Ghana’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, mining, and oil. Cocoa is the main export product, followed by gold and crude oil. Ghana is also experiencing rapid growth in the services sector and manufacturing.

Ghana’s Maritime Port System

Ghana has two main ports: Tema Port and Takoradi Port. Each port has its unique characteristics and advantages.

1. Tema Port

Location and Size

• Location: Tema Port is about 25 km east of the capital, Accra.
• Size: The largest port in Ghana, capable of handling large vessels up to 200,000 DWT and with a processing capacity of approximately 3.5 million TEUs per year.

Strengths

• Modern Infrastructure:
  • Equipped with advanced loading and unloading equipment.
  • Extensive and modern warehousing systems.
• Transportation Connectivity:
  • Convenient road and rail connections to Accra and surrounding areas.
• Diverse Services:
  • Provides logistics, cargo handling, and warehousing services.

Weaknesses

• Overloading Issues:
  • The port can experience overload, especially during peak seasons, leading to delays.
• High Costs:
  • Service fees are higher than those at Takoradi, which may not suit small businesses.

2. Takoradi Port

Location and Size

• Location: Takoradi Port is about 230 km west of Accra.
• Size: The second-largest port in Ghana, with a processing capacity of approximately 800,000 TEUs per year.

Strengths

• Lower Service Costs:
  • Service fees are generally lower than those at Tema, attracting small and medium enterprises.
• Mineral Export Services:
  • The port is convenient for exporting mineral products like oil and bauxite.

Weaknesses

• Limited Capacity:
  • The port cannot handle as much cargo simultaneously as Tema, leading to potential delays in unloading.
• Lack of Diverse Services:
  • Logistics and transportation services are not as extensive as those at Tema.

Shipping Schedule and Transit Time from Vietnam to Ghana

1. Shipping Schedule

Route 1: Haiphong/Saigon Port – Tema Port

• Transit Time: 30 – 40 days
• Route:
  1. Depart from Haiphong or Saigon Port.
  2. Stop at transshipment ports like Jebel Ali (UAE) or Singapore.
  3. Continue to Tema Port.
• Shipping Companies Providing Services:
  • Maersk Line: Transit time of approximately 35 days.
  • MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company): Transit time of approximately 32 days.
  • CMA CGM: Regular services from Vietnam to Tema.

Route 2: Danang Port – Takoradi Port

• Transit Time: 35 – 45 days
• Route:
  1. Depart from Danang Port.
  2. Stop at transshipment ports like Hong Kong or Dubai.
  3. Continue to Takoradi Port.
• Shipping Companies Providing Services:
  • Evergreen: Transit time of approximately 40 days.
  • Hapag-Lloyd: Also provides shipping services to Takoradi.

2. Ports Visited from Vietnam

• Tema Port:
  • The primary port where most ships from Vietnam call due to convenience in handling cargo and good service.
• Takoradi Port:
  • Used for agricultural and mineral cargo, but not as commonly as Tema.

Shipping Process from Vietnam to Ghana

1. Pre-Shipping Preparation

• Check Cargo and Packaging: Ensure that the cargo is packed according to international standards.
• Export Documents: Prepare commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and export permits.

2. Booking the Vessel

• Contact Shipping Companies: It is advisable to contact major shipping lines to book space at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
• Confirm Schedule: Monitor the vessel schedule for updates on timing and location.

3. Shipping Process

• Port Departure: After the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the departure port.
• Transshipment: Cargo will be transferred at transshipment ports before arriving in Ghana.

4. Customs Procedures upon Arrival in Ghana

• Customs Inspection: Upon arrival at the port, documents will be inspected by customs authorities.
• Payment of Taxes and Import Fees: Taxes and import fees must be paid before the cargo is cleared.

Conclusion

Ghana’s maritime port system plays a crucial role in international trade activities. Tema Port, with its modern infrastructure and diverse services, is the top choice for exports from Vietnam. Takoradi Port also has its unique advantages for agricultural and mineral products, although its scale and services are not on par with Tema. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each port, along with the shipping process, will help businesses optimize their export activities, enhance operational efficiency, and expand trade opportunities between Vietnam and Ghana.