- Parliament removes the 1% charge on electronic transactions
- The repeal was led by the John Mahama-led NDC government
- Over GHS 2 billion in revenue lost, with plans for alternatives
Parliament has officially repealed the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy), which imposed a 1% charge on electronic transactions.
Introduced in 2022 during the Akufo-Addo administration, the levy faced significant public opposition and became a major topic during the 2024 elections. Both the NPP and NDC addressed the levy as part of their campaign platforms.
The repeal was initiated by the NDC government under John Mahama’s leadership, with Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presenting the Legislative Instrument (LI) for amendment. The measure was adopted by Parliament after it had fully matured.
During the parliamentary debate, Finance Committee Chairman Isaac Adongo proposed the motion, with former Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Stephen Amoah offering his support. Former Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong also backed the repeal, but urged for a review of other taxes, such as VAT, to provide further economic relief for Ghanaians.
Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem-Nyarko noted that although the removal of the levy would benefit the public, it would result in a loss of over GHS 2 billion in revenue for the country.
The Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill 2025 effectively nullifies the Electronic Transfer Levy Act, 2022 (Act 1075). Finance Minister Dr. Forson assured that the government would explore alternative revenue sources while working to alleviate the tax burden on Ghanaians.
