The Ghana Revenue Authority is ramping up efforts to modernise tax administration as it seeks closer collaboration with the private sector to improve compliance and boost domestic revenue generation.
Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Sarpong, announced a series of reforms aimed at making tax processes more transparent, efficient and business-friendly during a high-level engagement with the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Accra.
The meeting, dubbed “Time with the GRA Commissioner-General,” formed part of the Chamber’s dialogue series with key state institutions.
Mr. Sarpong proposed quarterly meetings between the GRA and the leadership of the GNCCI to ensure business concerns are addressed promptly.
He described businesses as critical development partners and not just taxpayers, stressing the need for constant dialogue to build trust.
According to him, the Authority is implementing internal reforms to improve staff conduct, customer service and operational efficiency.
A major part of the reforms includes digital transformation initiatives such as a revised Value Added Tax system designed to eliminate cascading levies and reduce costs for businesses.
He also disclosed that the implementation of the Fiscal Electronic Devices Act will automate VAT collection and strengthen tax compliance nationwide, with selected businesses currently participating in pilot programmes.
At the ports, Mr. Sarpong said an artificial intelligence-powered customs valuation system has been introduced to promote fairness and reduce excessive human interference in customs assessments.
He further announced the rollout of an Integrated Tax Administration System that will connect customs and domestic tax operations through a single platform.
The new system will also integrate databases from other state institutions to expand compliance and improve revenue mobilisation.
“The ultimate objective of the reforms is to build a fair, transparent and technology-driven tax administration system that supports business growth and reduces Ghana’s dependence on borrowing,” he said.
President of the GNCCI, Stephane Miezan, welcomed the engagement and said it offered businesses an important opportunity to directly raise challenges affecting their operations.
He cited delays in tax refunds, inconsistencies in exemption policies, rising import costs and concerns over the AI customs valuation system as some of the key issues businesses want resolved.
Mr. Miezan expressed optimism that continued engagement between the GRA and the private sector would help create a more predictable and business-friendly environment.
