Gov't suspends import VAT & "fumigation levy"

Government has asked the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to suspend with immediate effect, the charging of Import VAT on selected categories of commodities and the "Fumigation levy.

The import VAT was slapped on 64 commodity groups from March 1, 2018, raising concerns among various importers groups following sudden price hikes.

Government in a statement issued by Information Minister, Mustapha Abdul-Hamid on Wednesday, said the hike in import charges were “unintended” and that the suspension of the Import VAT, a temporary measure, follows extensive consultation between Government and various stakeholders.

“This suspension is pending an assessment of Harmonized Code (HS Codes) for customs which were reviewed effective same date,” the statement said.

The proposed "fumigation levy" for shippers has also been indefinitely suspended.

“Further details of affected products will be outlined by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in due course." that's according to the statement.

“Government is grateful to all stakeholders for forthrightly participating in the engagement sessions and looks forward to a substantive resolution of the challenges faced by importers and shippers.” It concluded.


Below are the affected commodities:

1.  Mobile phones


2.  Electrical transformers


3.  Tractors for agricultural purposes


4.  Solar cells


5.  Musical instruments


6.  Outboard motors


7.  Concrete


8.  Mortar mixers 

and 


9. Day-Old Chicks.




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