The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) on Tuesday 3rd September, 2024 convened a significant meeting with representatives from various shipping lines operating in SLPHA.

The meeting, which was chaired by the SLPHA Director General, Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio, focused on addressing series of pressing issues affecting the turnaround time, efficiency and effectiveness of port operations.

The seven key issues that were discussed included high delivery order costs; ISPS tracking fees; VGM requirement for import containers; delays in refunds for returned containers; direct engagement with higher authorities; updates from parliamentary meeting; and, expirations of delivery orders.

In his opening statement, the SLPHA Director General emphasized the importance of dialogue between the Authority and shipping lines.

He averred that the meeting was aimed at providing a platform for discussing these aforesaid pressing issues and collaboratively finding solutions that would benefit all parties involved.
Key highlights of the meeting:
VGM Fees: Shipping lines are to reduce their commission on the collection of VGM fees from US$5 to US$2 per Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) or they allow the implementing agency collect the VGM fees directly.
Harmonization of Tariffs: A committee will be established, comprising representatives from the SLPHA, shipping lines, and the implementing agencies. This committee's primary objective will be to harmonize tariffs on local cost across the board, ensuring fairness and transparency.
Container Tracking Fees: The Freetown Terminal to remove the container tracking fee from their tariff and allow shipping lines to do the tracking. This will certainly ease the financial burden on importers.

Prompt Refund for Returned Containers:
It was agreed that refunds for returned containers should be processed within three working days, improving cash flow and reducing delays.
Channeling Complaints: Shipping lines were encouraged to channel their complaints through the SLPHA rather than directly approaching senior government officials.

This process aims to streamline the resolution of issues and improve communication.

Expiration of Delivery Orders: The expiration period for delivery orders was standardized at 14 days including weekends upon the vessel's arrival. This change aims to reduce confusion and ensure a more predictable timeline for operations.
The meeting marked a significant step forward in resolving the challenges facing the shipping industry in Sierra Leone. By fostering open communication and collaboration, the SLPHA and shipping lines are working together to create a more efficient and transparent operational environment.
These resolutions are expected to alleviate some of the burdens on shipping lines and importers while ensuring that port operations continue to run smoothly and in compliance with international standards.