Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS) reached a remarkable milestone on November 13, 2024, by attaining certification as an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). This recognition by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority positions MPS as one of the first nine companies in Ghana to attain this prestigious status, reinforcing its strategic role as an economic enabler and global trade facilitator.

A Testament to Trust, Compliance and Excellence

The AEO certification reflects MPS’s reputation as a trusted partner in customs clearance and international trade. It manifests the company’s firm commitment to integrity, transparency, and compliance with both national regulations and global standards, aligning with its corporate values of integrity and transparency.

The AEO status signals MPS’s ability to streamline processes while ensuring the utmost security and reliability in trade facilitation.

To qualify, MPS underwent an exhaustive certification process, including a rigorous audit by customs authorities. This involved demonstrating conformity to stringent standards in record-keeping, financial solvency, and security measures.

Speaking on the achievement, the Head of Legal and Compliance, Mr. Frank Ebo Brown, praised the collaborative efforts that made this accomplishment possible. “We appreciate the consistent support of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Customs Division, for their pivotal role in realizing this goal. By identifying and addressing legal barriers hindering transhipment trade, they have worked with us to amend these challenges, ensuring a robust and fluid transhipment process aligned with global practices,” he stated.

Elevating Trade Facilitation

The AEO program, implemented under the guidance of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and in support of the World Trade Organization’s mission, aims to enhance trade facilitation, streamline logistics, and strengthen Ghana’s position in the global trading community.

Commenting on the achievement, the Chief Executive Officer of MPS, Mr. Mohamed Samara, stated, “This monumental step aligns perfectly with our mission to realize the full potential of this remarkable infrastructure. Trade facilitation is a cornerstone of economic transformation for many nations, and Ghana is no exception.”

He further emphasised that this certification strengthens our partnership with Customs by fostering a transparent and predictable trading environment, an essential foundation for the growth and sustainability of the logistics industry. We remain dedicated to enhancing our services to meet the evolving needs of our local and global customers.

Unveiling the Benefits of AEO Status

With AEO certification, MPS’s new status introduces global benefits, including:

• Faster Customs Clearance: Accelerated procedures and reduced inspection rates for imports and exports.
• Enhanced Security: Recognition as a secure and safe business partner in international trade.
• Operational Efficiency: Minimized delays and costs through optimized supply chain processes.
• Global Integration: Alignment with international best practices for seamless collaboration with global stakeholders.

Driving Excellence Through Corporate Vision

MPS continues to champion Ghana’s viability as a transhipment hub, with Terminal 3 at Tema Port serving as a critical infrastructure asset. The terminal boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, superstructures and advanced technology, rivalling hub ports worldwide in quality and capacity. Its acceptance by the world’s major shipping lines highlights the realisation of MPS’s transhipment vision.

Strengthening Ghana’s Trade Potential

MPS’s attainment of AEO status not only enhances its operational capabilities but also bolsters Ghana’s position as a preferred trade and transhipment destination in the region.

By aligning with World Customs Organization (WCO) frameworks and leveraging expertise in capacity development and training, MPS is at the forefront of championing Ghana’s vision of becoming a global logistics powerhouse.

As MPS continues to innovate and evolve, this milestone reinforces its commitment to driving growth, sustainability, and excellence in the logistics sector. Through collaboration with customs authorities and stakeholders, MPS is playing a major role in reshaping the future of trade in Ghana and beyond.

This certification is more than an operational achievement, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for MPS. It elevates the company’s impact on global commerce while reinforcing Ghana’s competitive edge in the international trade arena.

The CEO of MPS described this achievement as a stepping stone toward greater global competitiveness reaffirming MPS’s positive role in shaping the future of trade in Ghana and beyond.