- GPRTU drops opposition to fuel levy but demands clear duration
- COPEC insists levy revenue must support energy sector reforms
- Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies braces for July 16 rollout
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) are urging the government to clearly define the implementation timeline and duration of the upcoming GH¢1 fuel levy, set to take effect on July 16. They are also calling for full transparency regarding how the revenue will be used, warning against turning the levy into a permanent tax.
Initially opposed to the levy, the GPRTU has since softened its stance following discussions with stakeholders. However, the union remains firm that the levy must be time-bound. Speaking to Citi Business, GPRTU Industrial Relations Officer Abass Imoro stressed the need for a fixed duration.
“We plead with authorities to announce a clear timeline—whether it’s six months or a year. It shouldn’t be indefinite,” he said.
Imoro also expressed concern about fluctuating fuel prices. With diesel costs slightly up and petrol prices down in early July, he warned that further increases could lead to higher transport fares.
COPEC echoed similar concerns. Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah insisted that the revenue from the GH¢1 levy should be accounted for and used specifically to strengthen Ghana’s energy sector.
“This must not become another permanent tax hidden in the fuel price build-up. The energy sector must move toward full cost recovery and eventually operate like the deregulated petroleum sector,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies says its members are preparing for the levy’s rollout, which aligns with the start of the second pricing window for July.
However, CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong noted that the impact on pump prices remains uncertain due to ongoing fluctuations in both global and local fuel markets.
“It’s too early to predict whether prices will rise or fall,” he stated.
