Mahama Vows to Prioritize Fairness Over New Taxes for Ghanaian Businesses

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, emphasizing that his government has no intention of introducing new taxes that could threaten the survival of businesses or encourage tax evasion.

Speaking with business leaders during an event to reflect on the Kwahu Business Forum, President Mahama stressed that the solution to Ghana’s revenue mobilization challenges lies in making taxes more transparent and fair, rather than piling on additional levies.

“I noticed that when the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) was introduced, everybody applauded you applauded the GRA. The GRA is your friend. I can assure you they are your friend, and they will become even more business-friendly because I believe the solution to our situation is not to pile on more taxes,” President Mahama said.

He further emphasized that introducing more taxes would only lead to evasion, citing the example of the E-Levy, which he warned would be avoided by citizens. “We warned that people would find ways to avoid paying it ,and they did. Instead of solving financial challenges as promised, people simply cashed out their wallets and reverted to using cash to sidestep the new levy,” he added.

President Mahama’s commitment to tax reform aims to encourage greater compliance by making taxes more transparent and fair, thereby fostering a more favorable business environment in Ghana.