Scrap 20% excise tax on sweetened beverages to support 24-hour economy, AGI urges gov’t

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is urging the government to reverse the 20% excise tax on locally produced sweetened beverages and fruit juices, arguing that it hampers the 24-hour economy program, limits production capacity, and threatens local jobs.

Since its implementation in 2023, the tax has led to significant sales declines, reduced production utilization, and mass layoffs. Local producers like Ekumfi Fruits and Juices, Kasapreko, and others are struggling to compete with imported products.

The Ghana Federation of Labour also supports the call for a tax review, citing its negative impact on the local beverage industry.