'Chinese firms taking over clearing jobs' — Total Logistics CEO raises alarm

The Chief Executive Officer of Total Logistics Ghana, Emmanuel Percy- Brown, has raised concerns about what he says is increasing foreign involvement in Ghana's customs clearing and freight forwarding industry through arrangements that may circumvent existing regulations.

Speaking on Executive Spotlight, Mr. Percey-Brown alleged that some foreign-owned businesses were carrying out activities traditionally reserved for licensed Ghanaian clearing agents, prompting calls for stronger enforcement of industry rules.

"Do you believe Chinese people do clearing?" he asked during the interview, suggesting that some foreign operators were playing a more active role in the sector than regulations may permit.

His comments are likely to renew debate over foreign participation in Ghana's logistics industry and whether existing laws are being adequately enforced.

Calls for stronger oversight

Customs clearing and freight forwarding are central to Ghana's trade network, facilitating the movement of goods through ports, airports and land borders.

Mr. Percey-Brown argued that local entrepreneurs have invested heavily in building the industry and should be protected from what he described as unfair competition.

He claimed that some foreign-owned companies were using local partnerships or intermediary arrangements to gain access to activities that would otherwise be restricted. He did not provide specific examples but maintained that regulators needed to strengthen oversight.

"We need to enforce the regulations that already exist," he said.

Concerns over competition

Mr. Percey-Brown's remarks come as local freight forwarding companies face increasing competition in an industry undergoing rapid technological change.

According to him, some operators are adopting aggressive pricing strategies that make it difficult for compliant businesses to compete.

"People are undercutting genuine rates," he said.

He argued that companies that meet tax obligations, licensing requirements and other regulatory standards are often placed at a disadvantage when competing against businesses operating under different cost structures.

Industry stakeholders have previously raised concerns about pricing practices they believe could undermine the long-term sustainability of the sector.

Mr. Percey-Brown said creating a level playing field was essential to encourage investment, protect jobs and support economic growth.

Sector critical to trade ambitions

Ghana's logistics and freight forwarding industry plays a key role in supporting imports, exports and transit trade across West Africa.

The sector has gained increasing prominence as Ghana seeks to strengthen its position as a regional trade and logistics hub.

Industry experts have long argued that efficient logistics services are critical to reducing the cost of doing business, improving competitiveness and attracting investment.

Mr. Percey-Brown said infrastructure development alone would not be enough to secure the sector's future.

"The success of the industry depends on effective regulation and enforcement," he said, warning that weak oversight could discourage local investment and erode confidence among legitimate operators.

Appeal to policymakers

Mr. Percey-Brown called on regulators and policymakers to improve monitoring systems and ensure that all industry participants operate within the law.

He also urged closer collaboration between enforcement agencies and industry associations to identify emerging challenges and address potential regulatory gaps.

According to him, safeguarding the integrity of the clearing and freight forwarding sector is not about limiting competition but ensuring that competition remains fair and transparent.

He further called for greater consultation with industry players when developing policies affecting trade and logistics.

"The people who work in the industry every day understand the challenges and should be part of the conversation," he said.

Debate expected to continue

The comments are expected to spark discussion among freight forwarders, regulators and business groups as Ghana continues efforts to modernise its ports and expand regional trade.

Questions over foreign participation in sectors traditionally dominated by local operators have surfaced periodically in industries including retail, mining, construction and logistics.

While supporters of foreign investment argue that it brings capital, expertise and innovation, critics contend that weak enforcement of regulations can place local businesses at a disadvantage.

Mr. Percey-Brown said consistent application of industry rules would benefit businesses, government and consumers while helping to strengthen Ghana's reputation as a reliable trade and logistics destination in West Africa.