The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced a one-week delay in the implementation of the GH¢1 fuel levy, originally set to take effect on June 9. The new rollout date is now June 16, 2025, following discussions with key stakeholders, including the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA).
The GH¢1 levy, officially known as the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, was introduced as part of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, passed by Parliament on June 3. The levy applies to every liter of fuel purchased, meaning consumers will pay an additional GH¢1 per liter at the pump. The government argues that this measure is necessary to address financial shortfalls and debt repayment within the energy sector.
Concerns from COMAC
COMAC has been vocal about its reservations regarding the levy, warning that it could lead to higher fuel prices and increased financial strain on consumers. The association expressed concerns over the lack of prior engagement before the levy’s announcement, stating that the sudden implementation could destabilize the downstream petroleum market.
Dr. Riverson Oppong, Coordinator of COMAC, acknowledged the revised timeline, stating that the decision to postpone the levy reflects the importance of dialogue and partnership among stakeholders. He emphasized that while COMAC understands the government’s need to generate revenue, the industry requires adequate preparation to ensure a smooth transition.
GRA’s justification for the postponement
In response to industry concerns, the GRA confirmed that discussions with COMAC and other stakeholders led to the decision to push back the implementation date. A GRA representative explained, “The association has concerns with the June 9 implementation date. We have discussed with their leadership in the spirit of cordiality and partnership and have agreed on a new start date of June 16.”As citied by myjoyonline
Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, urged all stakeholders, including fuel stations and port authorities, to comply with the revised levy structure. He assured that the delay would allow for better coordination and enforcement across the petroleum sector.
NPA’s Position on the Levy
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has also weighed in on the matter, stating that while the levy is necessary for energy sector stability, it must be implemented in a way that minimizes disruptions. The NPA emphasized that fuel pricing mechanisms must remain transparent and predictable, ensuring that consumers are not unfairly burdened by sudden price hikes.
What This Means for Consumers
For the average consumer, this new fuel levy means higher costs at the pump. A person who buys 50 liters of fuel weekly will now pay an extra GH¢50 per week, adding up to GH¢200 per month in additional expenses. This could have a ripple effect on transportation costs, leading to potential fare hikes in public transport and increased expenses for businesses dependent on fuel.
The delay gives consumers a brief window to prepare for the added cost, but the financial impact remains unavoidable. Economists predict that Ghana’s already rising inflation could see another spike, affecting goods and services that rely on transportation. Some industry experts suggest that subsidies or tax reliefs might ease the transition, though no official response has been made regarding such measures.
What’s Next?
With the revised date now confirmed, industry players are expected to begin implementing the GH¢1 levy from Monday, June 16. The GRA has assured that compliance measures will be in place to ensure a smooth transition.
As the deadline approaches, consumers and businesses alike will be watching closely to see how the levy impacts fuel prices, transportation costs, and overall economic activity. Will this measure help stabilize Ghana’s energy sector, or will it spark further debate? Only time will tell.
