GRA halts implementation of GH¢1 fuel levy

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has suspended the implementation of the controversial GH¢1 Energy Sector Levy on petroleum products, following intense stakeholder opposition and a directive from the Ministry of Finance.

The levy, which was set to take effect on June 16, 2025, was part of the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141) and was expected to increase the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) on selected fuel products.

It had already been postponed once from its initial rollout date of June 9 to June 16.

GRA, in a statement dated Friday, June 13, confirmed the indefinite suspension of Tariff Interpretation Order (TIO) No. 2025/004, the legal framework for enforcing the levy.

“This directive is issued to postpone the implementation date of Tariff Interpretation Order (ΤΙΟ) No. 2025/004 relating to the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141). This follows a directive from the Minister of Finance, after consultations with stakeholders.”

“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.A new effective date will be communicated in due course.”

The postponement comes amid growing resistance from stakeholders, including the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), transport operators, and other petroleum sector actors, who raised concerns over the economic impact and lack of broad consultation.

GRA has since directed all ports, fuel stations, customs offices, and relevant agencies to take note of the decision.

GRA has also served sector commanders, technical service heads, and key institutions such as the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Ghana Link Network Services, and the Association of Oil Marketing Companies (AOMCs) with regard to the suspension.

Read below the statement