The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority has challenged CHAAG to build its new institution around integrity, partnership, continuous professional development and courageous self-regulation.
The charge was delivered by Ms Theresa Potakey, Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations, during CHAAG inauguration at the CLOGSAG Auditorium in Accra on 9 July 2026.
Her keynote address outlined four priorities for the Association.
1. Uphold integrity, professionalism and discipline
The reputation of CHAAG will be built through the conduct of its members. Every transaction, declaration and engagement with a client or regulator contributes to the standing of the Association and the wider customs brokerage profession.
Professional conduct must therefore be treated as a daily responsibility rather than a ceremonial commitment.
2. Engage Customs as a partner, not an adversary
The relationship between customs house agents and the Customs Division should be collaborative by design. Constructive engagement makes it possible to identify operational challenges, improve procedures and resolve concerns while protecting the legitimate interests of traders and the state.
CHAAG is expected to provide a credible platform through which this dialogue can take place.
3. Invest in continuous training
Customs brokerage is changing through digitalisation, new trade arrangements and evolving regulatory requirements. The Deputy Commissioner therefore urged CHAAG to make professional training and capacity development a continuing priority.
Members must remain informed and capable of operating effectively within systems such as ICUMS and in areas including valuation, classification, compliance and the AfCFTA trade environment.
4. Confront unethical practice
A strong professional association must be prepared to regulate itself with courage and fairness. CHAAG was encouraged to establish credible mechanisms for promoting ethical practice and addressing misconduct within its membership.
Self-regulation will be essential to building public confidence in the Association.
Turning the charge into action
These priorities align with CHAAG commitment to governance, institutional integrity, professional standards, capacity building and stakeholder partnerships.
The Customs Division reaffirmed its willingness to work constructively with CHAAG in pursuit of:
- Efficient trade facilitation
- Effective revenue mobilisation
- Improved professional standards
- Protection of society
- Modernisation of customs operations
The four-part charge now provides CHAAG with a practical standard for measuring its progress. Its success will depend on translating these commitments into effective governance, regular training, disciplined professional conduct and sustained engagement with the Customs Division.
