Seth Terkper to launch book on VAT on June 25

Seth Terkper, Ghana’s former Minister of Finance, will launch his second book. The book is titled "VAT in Africa: The Ghana Experience." The launch is scheduled for June 25, 2025, at 3 PM.

This event marks another achievement in Terkper’s career. He has played a significant role in Ghana’s fiscal policy reforms, especially in taxation. As Finance Minister from 2013 to 2017, he led important VAT reforms. These included changes to the VAT Flat Rate Scheme and improving compliance.

Terkper also modernized revenue administration. He chaired key committees like the Ghana Revenue Authority and the GIFMIS reforms.

Ghana introduced its VAT system in 1994 under President Jerry John Rawlings. Initially set at 17.5%, it faced strong opposition and protests. This led to a temporary suspension before being reintroduced in 1998 at a lower rate of 10%.

Since then, VAT has become an essential revenue tool for Ghana. Amendments have added levies like the GETFund Levy (2.5%) and NHIL (2.5%). At various times, these changes brought the effective rate to 15%.

Terkper is a Chartered Accountant and Harvard-trained public administrator. His first book, "VAT Handbook" by Thomson Reuters (2011), remains influential on Ghana’s tax system.

His upcoming book will explore VAT's impact on economic development in Ghana. It draws from his experiences as a policymaker and IMF Senior Economist.

As Presidential Advisor on Economy, Terkper continues to influence fiscal strategies in Ghana. He advocates for balanced growth and tax efficiency beyond oil revenues.

The book launch will likely strengthen his legacy as a key architect of Ghana’s modern tax regime.