The Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD) has accused the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) of disregarding a presidential directive concerning the berthing and discharge of petroleum products at Tema Port. In a recent statement, CBOD highlighted that the ongoing disruptions to the Laycan import schedule have placed significant financial strain on Bulk Import, Distribution, and Export Companies (BIDECs).
Developed through multi-stakeholder consultations, the Laycan schedule is meant to facilitate the orderly importation of petroleum products. However, in 2025, the schedule was revised over four times in the first quarter and seven times in the second quarter without industry consultation. These frequent, unilateral changes have undermined operational predictability and resulted in substantial financial burdens for BIDECs.
CBOD reported that in the first half of 2025, BIDECs faced over USD 40 million in demurrage and related costs, which have ultimately contributed to higher fuel prices for consumers. The chamber expressed alarm over the ongoing violations of the Laycan protocol, where companies without assigned slots are allowed to berth under vague “emergency” claims, compromising fairness and transparency in the sector.
Moreover, the extension of the second-quarter Laycan schedule into the third quarter of 2025 has exacerbated uncertainty within the industry. Despite CBOD’s efforts to engage with the NPA to restore order, no effective measures have been taken, leading to a worsening situation.