The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has confirmed that the long-awaited implementation of the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141), will take effect on July 16, 2025, ending weeks of uncertainty after a temporary suspension last month.
This follows a statement issued and signed by Acting Commissioner-General Anthony Akwasi Sarpong, in which the GRA clarified that the earlier deferment—announced on June 13—was part of a coordinated effort with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Energy to cushion consumers and monitor global fuel market trends.
The GRA cited improved stability in international and local fuel markets as justification for resuming the levy’s implementation.
“Following a thorough review of prevailing market indicators and in line with the government’s commitment to ensuring stable economic conditions,” the statement said, “the implementation of the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141), will now commence, effective 16th July 2025.”
Stakeholder Preparedness Key to Rollout
The Authority has urged all relevant stakeholders—including fuel importers, petroleum service providers, and customs officers—to begin preparations for compliance. According to the GRA, the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) has already been updated to incorporate the changes mandated under Act 1141.
This means the system is now capable of automatically applying the amended levy structure at the ports of entry, streamlining enforcement and revenue collection.
A Delicate Balancing Act
The reactivation of the energy levy comes at a time when the government continues to walk a tightrope between raising domestic revenue and shielding Ghanaians from further inflationary pressures. The initial delay in June was widely seen as a response to concerns over fuel price hikes and their broader impact on transport and living costs.
The Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025, forms part of government reforms aimed at improving fiscal sustainability in the energy sector, with proceeds expected to support debt servicing and infrastructure rehabilitation.
The GRA has promised further engagements with industry players in the coming days to ensure a smooth and transparent transition.
