The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) and the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) are calling on the government to provide clear timelines and transparent accountability measures for the newly announced GH¢1 levy on petroleum products.
Set to take effect on July 16, 2025, the levy excluding Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)is aimed at helping to clear Ghana’s growing energy sector debt. Government officials have stated the levy is a necessary measure to ensure financial stability in the sector, but concerns remain among key stakeholders.
COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah and GPRTU executives are demanding clarity on how long the levy will last and how the revenue will be utilized. The two bodies are particularly worried that the levy might become a permanent charge without a clear exit plan.
“The GH¢1 levy must not follow the path of past fuel taxes that have remained part of the pricing structure indefinitely,” said Duncan Amoah. “Whatever needs to be done in the short to medium term to recover costs in the energy sector should be done transparently and efficiently. In the long run, we must move towards deregulating the power sector just as we have done with petroleum.”
Although the GPRTU initially opposed the new charge, the union has adopted a more measured stance after discussions with stakeholders. GPRTU Industrial Relations Officer, Mr. Abass Imoro, emphasized the need for a time-bound approach to avoid long-term pressure on commercial drivers.
“We’re saying this is a little better than where we were, so let’s move forward. But we are watching closely. If profitability becomes an issue for our members, we will take steps to safeguard their interests,” he said in an interview with Citi FM.
Mr. Imoro also urged the government to commit to a clear duration for the levy. “We plead with the authorities—let us know if this levy will last six months, one year, or however long they believe it will take to stabilize the sector. It shouldn’t be open-ended.”
Both COPEC and GPRTU have underscored that accountability and timeframes are crucial if the levy is to be accepted and effective. They warn that turning it into a permanent fixture would place undue burden on the transport sector and consumers alike.
