The reforms included the removal of the COVID-19 levy and other adjustments
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has reported that the recently implemented Value Added Tax (VAT) reforms have returned approximately GH¢6.5 billion to households through lower prices.
This follows a reduction in the effective VAT rate to 20 percent, which included the removal of the COVID-19 levy and other adjustments decreasing the overall prices of goods and services by approximately 1.9 percent.
During a compliance monitoring exercise at shopping malls in the Spintex area on January 6, 2026, the GRA Commissioner-General, Anthony Sarpong, urged businesses to comply with the new VAT framework fully. He also encouraged shoppers always to request VAT invoices to aid enforcement efforts.
“This morning we visited a number of the shops, and we are satisfied that all the shops that we have visited have actually configured their systems and they are applying the new VAT rates, for that matter.
“We have also had engagement with consumers, and we note that their satisfaction with the reduction in the rate of the VAT, which in essence affirms what the Minister of Finance announced, that the reforms are giving back over 6.5 billion into the pockets of Ghanaians. This morning, those who have been with us have witnessed how the consumers are enjoying that.
“For us at GRA, we continue to appeal to businesses and individuals who are business owners that we would like you to go on voluntary compliance, comply with VAT, charge VAT, implement VAT on your systems, or issue VAT invoices as the case may be. For all consumers, as you are enjoying the new reforms, also demand your VAT invoice anytime you purchase,” he said.
This revenue, he stressed, is essential for national development, job creation, and economic growth, in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for national transformation.
Shopping centres visited during the exercise, including Palace Mall, Melcom, and Orca Décor, confirmed their systems have been updated for the new VAT structure.
Customers at these locations expressed approval of the resulting price reductions.
Watch videos from the exercise below:
Source:
www.ghanaweb.com
