The GRA has announces a short postponement of the GHC1 fuel levy implementation, now set to begin on June 16, allowing stakeholders time to adjust to the new rates.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has postponed the implementation of the GHC1 fuel levy to June 16, 2025, following strong opposition from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) and other stakeholders. This decision was made after discussions between the GRA and COMAC in a bid to address concerns over the timing and potential impact on fuel prices and consumer burden.

Background of the Fuel Levy

The Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy aims to raise additional revenue to address energy sector shortfalls, reduce legacy debts, and stabilize the country’s power supply. The levy was initially set to take effect on June 9, 2025, but was postponed due to stiff resistance from oil marketing companies.

New Levy Rates

The revised levy rates will affect various petroleum products as follows:

– Motor Spirit (Super Petrol)*: GHC1.95 per liter (up from GHC0.95)

– Diesel (AGO) and Marine Gas Oil (Foreign): GHC1.93 per liter (up from GHC0.93)

– Marine Gas Oil (Local): GHC0.23 per liter (up from GHC0.03)

– Heavy Fuel Oil (Residual Fuel Oil – RFO): GHC0.24 per liter (up from GHC0.04)

– Partially Refined Oil (Naphtha): GHC1.95 per liter (up from GHC0.95)

– Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): No change, remains at GHC0.73 per kilogram

Transitional Arrangements

To manage the transition, the GRA has outlined key directives:

– Products lifted by Petroleum Product Marketing Companies (PPMCs) before June 16 will still be subject to the old levy rates.

– “Cash-and-carry” transactions by PMMCs for products lifted on or after June 1, 2025, will be subject to the new rates.

Stakeholder Reactions

COMAC had expressed strong opposition to the initial implementation date, citing inadequate industry consultation and potential disruption to operations. They described the GRA’s handling of the matter as an “institutional ambush” and “Rambo-style directive”. The postponement reflects the value of dialogue and partnership among stakeholders, allowing industry players adequate time to adjust to the new levy rates.