The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has announced that importers can now pay their duties online weeks before their goods arrive at the port.

According to Sarpong, this innovation means importers no longer need to physically visit the port to make payments.

Instead, they can estimate and settle their duties from the comfort of their homes or offices, with only the final clearance requiring a physical presence.

This is aimed at streamlining the customs process and reducing delays.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Thursday, August 21, 2025, he said; “Today, you can estimate the value of your duties two weeks before your goods arrive. And you can pay online, so you don’t need to walk to the port to pay. You can pay from your desk, from the comfort of your room. What you then need is the physical clearance, and that’s why we added that component at the port to make sure it drives that operation.”

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Sarpong stressed that this digital shift is part of the government’s broader 24-hour economy agenda, a flagship initiative launched by President John Mahama aimed at boosting industrialisation, job creation, and domestic revenue generation.

The program seeks to ensure that key sectors of the economy, including ports, operate around the clock to maximise productivity and reduce bottlenecks.

“The 24h+ is one of the key flagship programs that President John Mahama has launched. It’s targeted at industrialisation, job creation, and ultimately domestic tax revenue. At GRA, we see ourselves as a key constituent and partner in ensuring the success of this program,” Sarpong explained.

He further noted that the GRA has engaged with critical stakeholders, including shipping lines, banks responsible for revenue collection, and other port authorities, to ensure smooth implementation.

Sarpong said GRA has trained personnel and educated the public on how to file and pay taxes online.

This move is expected to enhance efficiency at Ghana’s ports, reduce congestion, and support the government’s vision of a digitally driven, 24-hour economy that empowers businesses and strengthens the national revenue base.

SA/MA

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