Government Suspends Cargo Tracking Charges After Strike Brings Port to Standstill

Written by: Alieu Jallow

The government has suspended the implementation of the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN), a controversial policy that triggered a sit-down strike by the Gambia Association of Clearing and Forwarding Agents and brought container clearance operations at the country’s main seaport to a standstill.

The strike, which disrupted activities at the Gambia Ports Authority, was launched by clearing agents protesting what they described as unjust and burdensome charges linked to the CTN system, a policy tied to cargo monitoring and revenue collection.

In a directive issued during the standoff, the Executive announced the immediate suspension of the policy “until further notice,” marking a significant shift in response to mounting pressure from the association.

The Ministry of Trade has been tasked with notifying all relevant stakeholders of the decision and engaging the clearing agents to facilitate a swift return to normal operations at the ports.

Authorities have also called on members of the association to immediately resume work, after the halt in container clearance began to affect trade flows and raise concerns among importers and businesses.

The CTN policy had faced sustained criticism from industry players, who argued that its implementation lacked adequate consultation and imposed additional financial strain on already struggling businesses.

Sources within the clearing agents’ association previously told The Fatu Network that the policy had long been a point of contention, particularly over its alleged link to a foreign company and the accumulation of what they described as excessive charges.

The latest government intervention appears aimed at easing tensions and reopening dialogue between both sides. Officials say discussions with the association will continue in a bid to reach a “lasting solution” that balances regulatory objectives with the concerns of industry stakeholders.

The move is expected to bring temporary relief to port users and businesses, as attention now turns to the outcome of ongoing negotiations between the government and clearing agents.