The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana has commended the government, particularly the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, for refraining from introducing any new taxes over the past two years.
According to the Association, the decision has brought significant relief to the business community, and it expects the government to maintain this trajectory by avoiding fresh tax measures in the upcoming 2027 budget.
Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the Executive Secretary of the Association, Samson Asaki Awingobit, noted that the scrapping of the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy and the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) upon assuming office demonstrated the administration’s commitment to ensuring the survival of local businesses.
He described the abolished levies as nuisance taxes that previously had a severe negative impact on business operations across the country.
“We commend the Finance Minister for the bold steps he has taken in ensuring that no new taxes were introduced. They scrapped the E-Levy and the COVID-19 levy, and we have also seen the stability of the Cedi. We have witnessed some significant gains, which is why we support the government’s introduction of artificial intelligence to streamline tax collection rather than imposing new burdens,” Mr Awingobit stated.
He further lauded the government for adopting modern technology to boost domestic revenue mobilisation, noting that such initiatives have enabled the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to meet its revenue targets without stifling the private sector.
“The steps taken to ensure that the Ghana Revenue Authority meets its targets clearly demonstrate that with genuine commitment and the effective use of technology, the GRA can exceed its expectations without overtaxing businesses,” he added.
Looking ahead to the 2027 fiscal year, Mr Awingobit emphasised that the Association’s primary demands remain focused on reducing the overall cost of doing business, easing existing tax burdens at the nation’s ports, and boosting domestic production to drive export growth.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana