As the nation anticipates the presentation of the 2025 mid-year budget, tax analyst Geoffrey Ocansey has urged the government to engage importers before introducing any new taxes, warning that failure to do so could trigger resistance and public demonstrations.
Speaking on Nkosuo Nsem, a current affairs programme, Mr. Ocansey emphasized the importance of dialogue between policymakers and key stakeholders—particularly importers, who often bear the brunt of tax policies.
“If you don’t have any conversation with them and you go ahead to introduce another tax, then surely they can go against it,” he said. “They are the ones who pay, and if they feel sidelined, it is only natural for them to protest.”
Mr. Ocansey made the remarks during a discussion on expectations ahead of the upcoming budget presentation. When asked whether Ghanaians are already burdened with taxes, he responded with a resounding “yes,” pointing to levies such as the E-Levy, COVID-19 levy, and import duties.
“These are all taxes people are complaining about,” he explained. “And that’s exactly why importers are asking to be involved in discussions before any new tax is introduced.”
By: Daniel Kadan/Planbffmonline.com
Discussion about this post