The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has responded to industry concerns by postponing the implementation of the controversial Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy. Initially set to take effect on June 9, 2025, the new date has been pushed back by one week to June 16, 2025. This decision comes in the wake of significant pushback from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which had raised alarms over the potential impact of the GH₵1-per-litre levy on fuel prices and its effect on consumers already grappling with financial challenges.
In a bid to ensure a smoother transition, the GRA engaged with various stakeholders within the industry. Discussions aimed at fostering collaboration yielded a consensus on the revised implementation date. A representative from the GRA elucidated the reasoning behind this adjustment: “The association expressed concerns regarding the original date of June 9. We’ve had productive discussions with their leadership, grounded in a spirit of cooperation, and have agreed to the new date of June 16.”
The levy, introduced as part of the government's strategic approach to mitigate financial shortfalls within the energy sector and to facilitate the repayment of related debts, has been met with skepticism. Many stakeholders voice apprehension that the levy could exacerbate the already precarious situation in the downstream petroleum market, which is struggling with profitability and consumer affordability.
Critics argue that prior to the levy’s announcement, there was insufficient consultation with industry players, resulting in a lack of preparedness. As outlined in the GRA’s directive, signed by Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, the updated levy rates will have direct implications on various petroleum products. Notably, the price for Motor Spirit (Super Petrol) is set to increase from GH₵0.95 to GH₵1.95 per litre. Other products will also see adjustments—AGO/Diesel and Marine Gas Oil (Foreign) will rise from GH₵0.93 to GH₵1.93, while Marine Gas Oil (Local) will jump from GH₵0.03 to GH₵0.23. Additionally, the levy on Heavy Fuel Oil (Residual Fuel Oil – RFO) will increase to GH₵0.24 from GH₵0.04, and the rate for Partially Refined Oil (Naphtha) will double to GH₵1.95 per litre. However, the charge for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) will remain at GH₵0.73 per kilogram.
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In preparation for the transition, the GRA has issued clear directives indicating that any petroleum products lifted by a Petroleum Product Marketing Company (PPMC) before the new start date will adhere to the previous levy rates. Conversely, any cash-and-carry transactions involving products lifted on or after June 1 will fall under the new pricing regime.
To ensure that these revisions are implemented effectively, Commissioner-General Sarpong has called for stringent compliance among all stakeholders, including port authorities and fuel stations. The GRA aims for a seamless enforcement of the new levy structure while acknowledging the need for collaboration and dialogue throughout the process, as it seeks to strike a balance between industry sustainability and consumer protection.
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