The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Ghana Customs Division have agreed to deepen their collaboration to strengthen the regulation of hazardous chemicals and enhance environmental protection across the country.
The agreement was reached during a recent meeting aimed at formalising cooperation between the two institutions, which have previously worked together on an informal basis.
Key discussions focused on upgrading Customs’ Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) with artificial intelligence tools to improve the tracking and monitoring of chemical imports and exports.
The two agencies also explored measures to address duty evasion through the misdeclaration of pesticides and other hazardous substances.
Another major issue discussed was the disposal of illegally seized sodium cyanide stocks, with both institutions agreeing to expedite joint efforts to ensure their safe disposal.
The meeting also highlighted the need to strengthen the transportation of hazardous chemicals. Officials proposed the introduction of GPS tracking systems, security escorts for chemical-carrying vehicles, and stricter licensing requirements for trucks transporting such substances.
The EPA and Customs further agreed to extend enforcement activities beyond the country’s major ports to cover key border entry points nationwide.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to undertake joint training programmes, conduct continuous inspections, and coordinate enforcement activities to safeguard public health, environmental safety and national security.
