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

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has started a dialogue with stakeholders. This aims to improve revenue collection under the Value Added Tax (VAT) system.

The discussions support proposed VAT reforms in the government’s 2025 Budget and Economic Policy.

Ghana has faced challenges in increasing VAT collections. Currently, VAT contributes only 20% of total annual revenue.

Last year saw a 17% growth in VAT collections. However, the GRA is consulting experts to find ways to enhance this revenue.

Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, Acting Commissioner-General of the GRA, is optimistic about the reforms. He believes they will improve compliance and increase government revenue.

This event also launched this year’s Tax and Good Governance Month, held every April.

Sarpong noted that there are many revenue opportunities within existing tax laws. He emphasized that enforcing compliance can generate necessary resources for national development.

He encouraged all taxpayers to comply, especially during April when taxes are due.

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

At the event, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene assured businesses that their concerns would be addressed. These include high import duties and transportation costs from ports.

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

Other GRA officials present were Brigadier General Glover Annan, Dr. Alex Adomako-Mensah, and Apenteng Gyamera.