The Role of ‘‘Door-To-Door’’ Shipping Operators in Ghanaian International Migration

Abstract

Freight has contributed to the economy of Ghana in diverse ways. The ‘‘‘Door-to-door’’ shipping model as part of the migration industry facilitates international migration of Ghanaians by helping emigrants to remain in contact with Ghana. This study was undertaken to examine the role of ‘‘Door-to-door’’ operations in Ghanaian international migration. The study employed a qualitative approach to data collection: the use of in-depth interviews and focus group discussion. Thirty-two participants who consisted of: five port officials from Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division) ,three port officials from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, five clearing agents and three local staff and business partners of ‘‘Door-to-door’’ operators in Ghana . Sixteen recipients of goods through ‘‘Door-to-door’’ shipping were also interviewed. Lastly, a focus group discussion was held with eight already interviewed recipients of goods through ‘‘Door-to-door’’ shipping. In examining the contributions of this model of shipping to the Ghanaian economy, the study found out that the ‘‘Door-to-door’’ shipping model has positive effects not only on the economy but on the lives of individuals. Some of these contributions are: the improvements in living standards of individuals and families, direct impacts on the economy: direct employment contribution, direct contribution to the GDP and direct tax contribution. There were also indirect or multiplier impacts on the economy. The study also identified that this shipping model has some negative impacts on the economy of Ghana as it has led to a decline in local industries and environmental pollution due to the influx of foreign goods and used goods. The study described this model of shipping and further highlighted challenges associated with it. The challenges involved are mainly in the process of shipping and handling of goods especially fragile goods. Some of these challenges include: poor systems of examination of goods (self –declaration of goods by clearing agents; false declaration of the value of goods) leading to loss of revenue for the state, damage of goods due to poor handling strategies both at the port and in transit and delays due to cumbersome systems at the ports. The study also addresses issues on how operations of ‘‘Door-to-door’’ shipping could be formalized by using systematic methods of delivery and clearing of goods in order to increase its benefits to both the state and to individuals. This study recommends that self-valuation of goods at the ports be discontinued in order to reduce losses of tax revenue. It also recommends that ‘‘Door-to-door’’ operators introduce compulsory insurance on fragile goods to help reduce losses for recipients incase their goods are damaged during the process of shipping. Finally recommendations were made on how to solve the issue of a decline in the patronage of local goods through the use of government policies to ban the importation of certain consumer goods.