The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG) has filed a legal challenge against the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), demanding disclosure of details surrounding a contract awarded to Truedare Investment Limited for the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems at Tema Port.
TAGG alleges that the GRA has refused to grant access to the contract despite a formal request submitted under the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).
According to TAGG, the GRA’s refusal, citing Section 11 of the Act to protect “confidential third-party commercial information,” poses a threat to transparency in processes that directly affect import duties, customs valuations, and traders’ livelihoods.
The contract in question, approved by Parliament on 18 November 2025, reportedly assigns Truedare Investment Limited to implement AI solutions to improve clearance and valuation processes at Ghana’s busiest port.
TAGG has raised concerns about Truedare’s qualifications, noting records suggesting it is a trade company registered in Cyprus with no known expertise in IT or AI systems.
In a press release, TAGG President David Kwadwo Amoateng said, “As traders impacting Ghana’s economy, we believe in transparency and accountability in processes directly affecting port operations, import duties, and valuation systems. The livelihood of traders must not be overlooked or sacrificed for undisclosed corporate interests.”
The group, represented by lawyer Alex Dodoo of Dodoo & Partners, has filed a motion on notice for judicial review at the High Court, Accra, seeking an order to compel the GRA to release the full contract and related records of the company’s experience in AI. The case is scheduled for hearing on March 26, 2026.
TAGG has also called on the Ministry of Finance, traders, and the general public to support the push for transparency, warning that contracts affecting import valuation should be executed by competent and qualified entities to avoid unfair practices at the ports.
Background
The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG) has, in the past, raised concerns over contractual arrangements between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and TRUEDARE Investment Limited, alleging a lack of transparency, inadequate stakeholder engagement, and questions about the company’s technical capacity.
In a statement dated 28 January 2026, TAGG said the GRA sought parliamentary approval for the contracts without prior consultation with traders and importers who would be directly affected by their implementation.
The group said the approach undermined transparency and inclusiveness in public procurement and policy implementation.
“It has become evident that the GRA proceeded to seek parliamentary approval for the said contracts without prior consultation or meaningful engagement with key stakeholders,” the statement said.
TAGG disclosed that following concerns raised by the trading community, an appeal was submitted to the Presidency, which subsequently directed the GRA to review the contract to ensure transparency and accountability.
However, the group said the GRA has not formally communicated the outcome of any such review to stakeholders.
Instead, TAGG said the Authority organised a forum that focused on the economic benefits and valuation accuracy of customs Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, without addressing concerns about procurement processes, fairness and stakeholder inclusion.
The traders’ group also questioned the qualifications of TRUEDARE Investment Limited, describing the company as having no known track record in deploying AI-driven customs valuation and classification systems.
According to TAGG, traders and importers are sceptical about the company’s technical capacity, particularly given the scale and sensitivity of the systems involved.
The group said concerns had been heightened by perceptions that experienced local technology firms were sidelined during the contracting process, raising questions about competence, fairness, and value for money.
In pursuit of greater transparency, TAGG said it has submitted an application to the Right to Information (RTI) Commission requesting full disclosure of the contract details.
The group said the request is intended to allow independent assessment of the agreement, including whether its terms reflect the stated scope of work and comply with principles of fair competition.
TAGG said it remains committed to constructive engagement with government authorities and stressed that its actions are aimed at protecting the interests of traders and importers while promoting transparency and stability in Ghana’s business environment.
