GRA postpones implementation of GH₵1 fuel levy to June 16 – Nsemkeka
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has officially deferred the rollout of the contentious Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy by one week, shifting the implementation date from June 9 to June 16, 2025.
The move comes after strong opposition from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which warned that the GHC1-per-litre levy could significantly increase fuel prices and worsen the financial strain on consumers.
In a response to growing industry concerns, the GRA confirmed that it had engaged with stakeholders and reached a consensus to allow for a smoother rollout.
Speaking to Citi News, a GRA representative explained the basis of the new decision: “The Association has concerns with the 9 June implementation date. We have discussed with their leadership in the spirit of cordiality and partnership and have agreed a new start date of 16 June.”
The levy, which forms part of the government’s broader strategy to address financial shortfalls in the energy sector and repay sector-related debts, has faced resistance due to fears it could destabilise the already fragile downstream petroleum market. Stakeholders argue that there was inadequate industry consultation prior to the initial announcement.
As outlined in the GRA’s directive signed by Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, the revised levy rates will affect a range of petroleum products as follows: the charge on Motor Spirit (Super Petrol) will increase from GHC0.95 to GHC1.95 per litre; AGO/Diesel and Marine Gas Oil (Foreign) from GHC0.93 to GHC1.93; Marine Gas Oil (Local) will rise from GHC0.03 to GHC0.23; and Heavy Fuel Oil (Residual Fuel Oil – RFO) will move from GHC0.04 to GHC0.24. Additionally, the rate for Partially Refined Oil (Naphtha) will also double to GHC1.95 per litre. Notably, the levy on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) remains unchanged at GHC0.73 per kilogram.
The new levy rates will apply to all petroleum products not lifted prior to the revised implementation date of June 16, 2025. To manage the transition, the GRA has outlined key directives: petroleum products lifted by a Petroleum Product Marketing Company (PPMC) before June 16 will still attract the old levy rates, while any “cash-and-carry” transactions involving products lifted on or after June 1 will be subject to the updated charges.
Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong called for full compliance from all stakeholders, particularly port authorities and fuel stations, to ensure a seamless enforcement of the revised levy.