Ghana’s Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) will enforce a GH¢1 per litre Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy on petrol and diesel starting Monday, June 16, 2025, after delaying the initial June 9 rollout to allow more industry consultation.
1. Postponement After Stakeholder Pushback
Originally scheduled for June 9, the launch was delayed after the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) voiced concerns about the sudden announcement and inadequate consultation. In the spirit of “cordiality and partnership,” GRA and COMAC agreed on a new start date—June 16—giving marketers time to prepare systems and pricing adjustments.
2. What the Levy Covers
Under the amended Energy Sector Levies Act (Act 1141), the levy doubles the previous ESLA rates—from approximately GH¢0.95/petrol and GH¢0.93/diesel to GH¢1.95 and GH¢1.93 per litre, respectively. Kerosene is exempt, while marine and heavy fuel oils will incur additional charges. LPG remains unchanged.
3. Why the Government Is Introducing It
Ghana’s energy debt reached roughly US$3.1 billion as of March 2025, with projected funding needs—including liquid fuels—totalling over US$2 billion this year. With global oil prices low and the cedi strong, the government saw a policy window to introduce the levy with minimal consumer impact, aiming to strengthen fiscal support for energy infrastructure.
4. Implementation Details
- Products lifted before June 16 aren’t subject to the new levy; those lifted on or after must reflect the updated rates.
- GRA will re-engage OMCs by June 10 to clarify operational guidelines for the levy’s rollout in the second pricing window of June.
5. Reactions & Concerns
COMAC warned the abrupt levy could destabilize the downstream petroleum sector, hiking tax burdens on current products to about 22–26% of pump prices and impacting affordability . Meanwhile, the Minority is launching a “nationwide campaign” to oppose the move.
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