Sam George: Only Finance Minister can remove data tariffs

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam George, has clarified a key point. No sector minister can reduce or remove data tariffs alone. This requires the involvement of the Minister for Finance and parliamentary approval.

His comments followed a concern raised by an X user, @tech_twi. The user highlighted the high cost of mobile data in Ghana. They noted that tariffs account for over 39% of every data purchase. The user urged government officials to prioritize reducing these tariffs.

Sam George responded directly on X to acknowledge the concern. He emphasized the legal limitations of his office regarding tariff changes. “No Minister, except the Minister for Finance, can REMOVE any tax or tariff,” he stated.

He explained that this process affects government revenue and cannot be bypassed. Tagging him repeatedly on social media would not change this reality. He reiterated that only the Minister for Finance can approve tariff changes.

Despite these constraints, Sam George reassured the public about ongoing efforts to lower data costs. Discussions are underway with the Ministers for Finance and Energy for medium-term solutions. Additionally, short-term policies are expected from regulators to provide immediate relief.

In related news, Ghana’s non-traditional exports reached $3.8 billion in 2024 despite a slight dip in other areas.