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By Emmanuel Nii Abordai Amoo
The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a caution to inbound travelers: carrying more than two mobile phones upon arrival into Ghana could trigger full customs duties and taxes.
Customs officers at border entry points evaluate the nature and quantity of items brought in by passengers to distinguish between personal belongings and commercial goods. Commissioner of Customs Aaron Kanor clarified that passengers entering the country with multiple mobile devices particularly brand-new units risk having those items reclassified as commercial imports.
Speaking to journalists following an inspection at Kotoka International Airport, Kanor cautioned travelers against agreeing to transport phones on behalf of relatives or friends. While accepting devices from multiple people is a common practice, he emphasized that doing so inflates an individual’s total count and creates tax liabilities.
“In Ghana, because of our culture, when one is traveling, Ama gives you one phone, Kofi gives you another, and all the day borns give you phones. When you carry seven phones and arrive, it amounts to commercial import,” Kanor explained.
He noted that carrying one primary device alongside a second phone intended for a spouse falls within reasonable personal limits, but anything beyond that is subject to duty assessments.
High-value smartphones specifically flagship models from manufacturers like Apple and Samsung represent a significant tax revenue stream for the state. Kanor urged incoming passengers carrying items beyond typical personal allowances to declare them immediately at airport checkpoints to prevent delays or confiscation.