The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has strongly opposed government’s decision to introduce a GH¢1 levy on every litre of petroleum product, citing the absence of stakeholder engagement and the additional financial burden on drivers.
Speaking on Starr Today with Tutuwaa Danso on Wednesday, June 4, Deputy Industrial Relations Officer of GPRTU, Samuel Amoah described the move as a major setback, especially following the recent 15% reduction in transport fares.
“We, the professional drivers, wish to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the recent decision to impose a GH¢1 levy on every litre of petroleum product. At a time when the prices of spare parts, lubricants, and other components remain unchanged and burdensome, this new tax only adds to the pressure we are already facing,” Amoah stated.
He noted that drivers are struggling to explain these new costs to passengers after reducing fares, based on the assumption that the strengthening of the cedi and falling fuel prices would provide some financial relief.
“The government’s explanation for this levy remains unclear to us. A charge of GH¢1 per litre is not insignificant — it accumulates quickly and directly affects our daily earnings and overall sustainability as transport operators. This decision will hit professional drivers the hardest, yet we were not engaged in any form of consultation before it was introduced.”
Parliament recently passed the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which introduces the GH¢1 hike in petroleum levies. The government projects the measure will generate about GH¢5.7 billion annually to help reduce the over $3 billion energy sector debt and ensure adequate fuel supply for power generation.
However, the GPRTU insists that more transparency and dialogue were needed before enacting such a critical fiscal policy. They also revealed that their final stance on the levy will depend on the findings of ongoing research into its direct impact on their operations.
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“We respectfully urge the government to reconsider this decision and take a second look at the levy. Meaningful dialogue and engagement with transport stakeholders are essential before implementing such impactful policies. This is not a burden we can bear lightly, and we are not happy at all with the imposition of this levy,” Amoah concluded.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Benjamin Sackey
