Accra, 13 November 2025 — The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has formally proposed that the government remove the COVID-19 levy and the Special Import Levy in its upcoming 2026 national budget, describing them as unnecessary burdens on Ghana’s trade sector.
In a statement issued today, IEAG’s Executive Secretary, Samson Asaki Awingobit, emphasized that these levies—while perhaps justified during extraordinary times—now hinder competitiveness, increase cost of doing business, and restrict export growth.
“Our members are already operating in a challenging global environment. Layered charges such as the COVID-19 levy and special import levy reduce our ability to compete, cut into margins, and discourage investment,” Mr. Awingobit said.
Association’s Key Recommendations
Remove the COVID-19 Levy: With the emergency phase behind us, IEAG argues this tax is no longer warranted for trade-based enterprises.
Abolish the Special Import Levy: This levy, according to IEAG, adds a hidden cost to imports, making Ghanaian businesses less competitive internationally.
Simplify the Tariff Structure: IEAG calls for harmonisation of duties and levies so that traders see a clearer cost structure and so that policy becomes predictable.
Prioritise Export-Enabling Policies: The association urges the Ministry of Finance and trade agencies to adopt fiscal policy that supports trade expansion, export diversification, and inward investment.
Why This Matters
IEAG notes that Ghana’s importers and exporters are facing rising global competition, supply-chain disruption, and currency volatility. In this context, trade-related levies that stack on top of one another undermine Ghana’s prospects in regional and global markets.
“We honour the government’s need to generate revenue, but that must not come at the cost of strangling our export capacity,” the statement said.
Next Steps
IEAG has requested a round-table consultation with the Ministry of Finance, the Ghana Revenue Authority, and other trade-policy stakeholders ahead of the budget reading. The aim is to provide detailed input from the trade community and ensure that budget policies support, rather than hinder, Ghana’s trade sector.
About IEAG
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) champions the rights and interests of businesses engaged in international trade. Through policy advocacy, member services, training and industry representation, IEAG continues to be a leading voice for Ghana’s trade community.
