Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has revealed that the government is actively engaging the Finance Ministry on a possible review of taxes on petroleum products, including the controversial one-cedi levy.
The discussions come at a time of rising global crude oil prices, largely driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have begun to impact fuel costs at the pumps in Ghana.
Speaking at the launch of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) Safety Week celebration in Accra, Mr. Jinapor indicated that consultations are ongoing with Dr Cassiel Ato Forson to determine the most appropriate course of action. He assured the public that a decision will be announced once discussions are concluded.
According to the Minister, the government’s immediate focus is to ensure a stable supply of petroleum products across the country before addressing pricing concerns.
“We have three key priorities as a government in this current situation, and the most important is ensuring the availability of petroleum products on the market. Once supply is secured, then we can address pricing issues,” he stated.
Mr. Jinapor acknowledged growing public calls for the removal or reduction of certain taxes on fuel, particularly in light of recent price hikes. However, he cautioned that any decision must balance consumer relief with the need to maintain government revenue streams.
While describing the proposal to remove some taxes as “a good idea,” he stressed that such measures could have broader fiscal implications. “Some sectors of the economy will have to make sacrifices so that we can still generate revenue and improve our fiscal position,” he noted.
The review discussions are taking place against the backdrop of heightened concerns about fuel affordability and availability, following intensified tensions in the Middle East in March 2026. Although the government has repeatedly assured the public of adequate fuel supply, many consumers continue to push for tax adjustments to cushion the impact of rising prices.
Industry players have also signalled their willingness to support policy changes. The Chief Executive of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies, Dr Riverson Oppong, told journalists that oil marketing companies are ready to collaborate with the government in reviewing the current tax regime on petroleum products.
As consultations continue, stakeholders across the energy sector are closely watching for policy decisions that could influence fuel pricing, government revenue, and overall economic stability in the months ahead.
By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang
