Credit: Kekeli K. Blamey
Ghanaians will have a brief reprieve from an expected fuel price hike, as the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has delayed the rollout of a new GHC1-per-litre fuel levy to June 16, 2025.
Originally set to take effect on June 9, the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy has sparked concern among consumers and fuel industry players alike, with many warning that it could further stretch household budgets already strained by inflation and high living costs.
The decision to push back the date comes after sustained opposition from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), who argued that the move was too sudden and could destabilize the downstream petroleum sector. Following a round of consultations, the GRA confirmed that the levy would now take effect a week later.
“We have discussed with their leadership in the spirit of cordiality and partnership and have agreed on a new start date of 16 June,” the GRA said in a media briefing.
The levy is part of broader efforts by the government to address long-standing debt in the energy sector. However, for everyday drivers and transport operators, it signals a rise in fuel costs that could ripple through prices for food, transportation, and other essentials.
New Fuel Levy Breakdown:
Petrol (Super): Increase from GHC0.95 to GHC1.95 per litre
Diesel and Marine Gas Oil (Foreign): GHC0.93 to GHC1.93
Marine Gas Oil (Local): GHC0.03 to GHC0.23
Residual Fuel Oil (RFO): GHC0.04 to GHC0.24
Partially Refined Oil (Naphtha): GHC0.95 to GHC1.95
LPG remains unchanged at GHC0.73
The new rates will apply to all petroleum products lifted after June 16. Products lifted before that date will still be charged the current, lower rates—offering consumers and businesses a short window to make advance purchases at existing prices.
However, the GRA has clarified that any “cash-and-carry” transactions done from June 1 onward but lifted on or after June 16 will still fall under the new levy regime.
The directive, signed by Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, calls for full compliance from all ports and fuel stations nationwide.
With fuel being a key driver of transport and food costs, the delayed implementation offers a brief but welcome pause for Ghanaians bracing for yet another cost-of-living increase.
