The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced a postponement in the implementation of the new Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) on selected petroleum products, which was originally scheduled to take effect on 16th June 2025.
The decision was communicated through an official directive dated 13th June 2025 and signed by the Commissioner-General, Mr. Anthony Kwasi Sarpong. The directive cites instructions from the Minister of Finance, who called for a suspension of the new tariff after holding consultations with key stakeholders.
The affected directive, Tariff Interpretation Order (TIO) No. 2025/004, was part of the implementation process for the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141). This amendment was set to introduce increases in energy sector levies aimed at addressing financial shortfalls and repaying debts within the sector.
“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 GRA stated.
The GRA assured stakeholders that a new effective date will be communicated in due course.
This move is likely to offer temporary relief to petroleum consumers who had expressed concern over the anticipated price hikes. However, experts warn that the delay is only a short-term measure and that the underlying challenges in the energy sector remain unresolved.
The directive has been distributed to all ports and stations, with internal notifications sent to key operational divisions, including Customs.
As public anticipation builds for further clarification, many will be watching closely for the Finance Ministry’s next steps and a revised timeline for the levy’s enforcement.
