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Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has dismissed suggestions that the abolition of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) has weakened government revenue, insisting that Ghana’s fiscal performance remains solid despite the policy change.
Presenting the 2026 Budget Statement to Parliament on Thursday, November 13, Dr. Forson said the decision to scrap the levy was intended to relieve financial pressure on Ghanaians and boost confidence in digital transactions—not to jeopardise revenue mobilisation efforts.
“The removal of the E-Levy didn’t weaken revenue,” he assured lawmakers. “We have maintained strong revenue inflows despite eliminating the levy.”
Improved Tax Compliance Offsetting E-Levy Removal
Dr. Forson explained that the government has achieved higher-than-expected domestic revenue performance, owing to reforms designed to modernise and streamline tax administration. He cited improvements in tax compliance, enhanced digital revenue systems, and an expanded tax base as key contributors to sustaining revenue numbers.
According to him, increased efficiency at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and ongoing digitisation initiatives have closed potential gaps that critics feared would emerge following the cancellation of the E-Levy.
“Our domestic revenue remains robust,” he said. “Efficiency gains in tax administration and reforms at the GRA continue to support our fiscal targets.”
Fiscal Consolidation on Track
Dr. Forson reaffirmed that the government’s broader fiscal consolidation drive remains on course, emphasising disciplined expenditure, controlled spending, and prudent financial management as core pillars of the 2026 budget.
He stressed that the administration is committed to broadening the tax net while ensuring fairness and avoiding undue pressure on existing taxpayers.
“Our focus is on building a fair, efficient, and growth-oriented revenue system,” he stated. “We will not overburden Ghanaians.”
Confidence in Growth and Infrastructure Financing
The Finance Minister expressed optimism that the government’s approach will sustain public sector operations, finance key infrastructure projects, and support private sector-led growth without reversing the decision to abolish the E-Levy.
He reiterated that the move was not only fiscally manageable but also strategically aligned with efforts to promote digital payments and stimulate economic activity.
