The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has officially postponed the rollout of the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, shifting the implementation date from June 9 to June 16, 2025.
The decision follows strong opposition from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which warned that the GH₵1-per-litre levy could significantly increase fuel prices and worsen financial strain on consumers.
Industry Concerns and Stakeholder Engagement
In response to growing concerns, the GRA confirmed that it had engaged with stakeholders and reached a consensus to allow for a smoother rollout. A GRA representative explained, “The association has concerns with the 9 June implementation date.
We have discussed with their leadership in the spirit of cordiality and partnership and have agreed a new start date of 16 June”.
The levy, which forms part of the government’s broader strategy to address financial shortfalls in the energy sector and repay sector-related debts, has faced resistance due to fears it could destabilize the already fragile downstream petroleum market.
Stakeholders argue that there was inadequate industry consultation before the initial announcement.
Revised Levy Rates
According to the GRA’s directive signed by Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, the revised levy rates will affect a range of petroleum products. The charge on Motor Spirit (Super Petrol) will increase from GH₵0.95 to GH₵1.95 per litre, while AGO/Diesel and Marine Gas Oil (Foreign) will rise from GH₵0.93 to GH₵1.93. Marine Gas Oil (Local) will move from GH₵0.03 to GH₵0.23, and Heavy Fuel Oil (Residual Fuel Oil – RFO) will increase from GH₵0.04 to GH₵0.24.
Additionally, the rate for Partially Refined Oil (Naphtha) will double to GH₵1.95 per litre, while the levy on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) remains unchanged at GH₵0.73 per kilogram.
Implementation Guidelines
The new levy rates will apply to all petroleum products not lifted prior to the revised implementation date of June 16, 2025. To manage the transition, the GRA has outlined key directives:
- Petroleum products lifted by a Petroleum Product Marketing Company (PPMC) before June 16 will still attract the old levy rates.
- Any cash-and-carry transactions involving products lifted on or after June 1 will be subject to the updated charges.
Call for Compliance
Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong has urged all stakeholders, including port authorities and fuel stations, to comply with the revised levy structure to ensure a seamless enforcement process.
With the new deadline approaching, industry players and consumers alike will be watching closely to see how the levy impacts fuel prices, transportation costs, and overall economic activity. Will this measure help stabilize Ghana’s energy sector, or will it spark further debate? Only time will tell.
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