GRA declares war on VAT leakage as stakeholders rally for tax reform – MyJoyOnline

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has commenced a stakeholder dialogue aimed at adopting strategic measures to reverse declining trends in revenue mobilisation under the Value Added Tax (VAT) system.

The engagement forms part of efforts to rally stakeholder support for proposed VAT reforms outlined in the government’s 2025 Budget and Economic Policy.

Over the years, Ghana has struggled to make significant gains in VAT collection, with the tax contributing only 20% of total annual revenue.

Despite a 17% growth in VAT collections last year, the GRA is consulting stakeholders and experts to explore ways of enhancing revenue from the VAT regime.

Acting Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, expressed optimism that the reforms will improve compliance and boost government revenue.

The occasion also marked the launch of this year’s Tax and Good Governance Month, observed every April.

“When we look at the tax laws, we realise that there are many revenue opportunities within the system. If we enforce compliance and taxpayers fulfill their obligations, we can generate the resources needed to develop our nation,” he stated.

“We are also using this platform to encourage all taxpayers to comply, especially during April, which is dedicated to ensuring taxes are duly paid.”

This year’s Tax and Good Governance Month is themed: “Transforming for Impact and Growth: Accelerating Domestic Revenue Mobilisation Through Effective Compliance Tools.”

Speaking at the event, Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, assured businesses that the government will address their concerns regarding high import duties and the cost of transporting goods from the ports.

The dialogue also featured discussions on key issues affecting the country’s tax systems.

Other GRA officials present included Commissioner of Customs, Brigadier General Glover Annan; Commissioner of Support Services, Dr. Alex Adomako-Mensah; and Commissioner of the Domestic Tax Division, Apenteng Gyamera.

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