GRA postpones GH¢1 fuel levy

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced the suspension of the implementation of the controversial GH¢1 fuel levy.

In a statement dated Friday, June 13, and signed by Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, the GRA confirmed the decision to halt the rollout came after the Minister of Finance intervened, following consultations with key stakeholders.

“Accordingly, the increase in the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) for selected petroleum products, which would have to take effect from the 16th of June, 2025, has been postponed,” the statement read.

“A new effective date will be communicated in due course. Thank you,” it added.

The Background: A Rapidly Approved Levy Hike

The now-suspended levy hike was set to impose an additional GH¢1 per litre on fuel purchases, following the fast-tracked passage of the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in Parliament. The bill, introduced on Tuesday, June 3, under a certificate of urgency by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, sailed through all legislative stages in a single day.

Dr. Forson justified the move as necessary to curb the energy sector’s deepening financial crisis, describing it as the most significant economic threat facing the country. According to him, the levy was designed to help offset energy sector shortfalls, repay legacy debts, and stabilize power supply nationwide.

The bill sought to adjust the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy upwards to mobilize revenue to the tune of GH¢5.7 billion annually.

Growing Public Pushback

Although the Finance Ministry defended the measure as essential for economic recovery, the proposed increase sparked immediate public backlash, with many questioning the timing and urgency of the hike amidst growing cost-of-living pressures.

The postponement now gives the government time to reassess its approach and possibly defuse rising discontent among fuel consumers and industry players alike.

While the new implementation date remains uncertain, all eyes are now on the Finance Ministry and GRA to determine the next steps in managing the country’s energy sector debts without overburdening citizens.