GPRTU threatens nationwide strike over GHC1 fuel levy

Commercial transport operators plan a nationwide strike on June 10, 2025. They are protesting the new GHC1.00 levy on petroleum products. This levy is commonly called the "Dumsor Levy."

On June 5, Abass Ibrahim Imoro spoke to the press. He is the Industrial Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU). He expressed strong dissatisfaction with the levy. He believes it will cause hardship for drivers and transport business owners.

Imoro stated that this decision was made without proper consultation. He warned that rising operational costs could push many operators out of business. The association demands an immediate reversal of this policy.

They also want broader engagement with the government and stakeholders. Imoro said, “We urge the government to reverse the levy immediately.” He emphasized the need for meaningful discussions about challenges in the energy sector.

The levy follows Parliament's approval of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This bill increases levies on petroleum products by GHS1. It aims to generate about GHS5.7 billion in revenue.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson explained how funds will be used. The revenue will help reduce Ghana’s energy sector debt, currently at $3.1 billion. An additional $1.2 billion is needed for fuel procurement in 2025.

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