The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has refuted claims suggesting that it computes customs duties using foreign currency.

According to the Authority, the allegation is baseless and inaccurate.

In a press release issued on Thursday, May 16, the GRA emphasised that such allegations are entirely false and should be dismissed by the Ghanaian public. 

The Authority asserted that its procedures for calculating duties are strictly governed by the provisions outlined in the Customs Act 2015 (Act 891).

According to the GRA, the assessment of duties and taxes on imported vehicles is determined primarily by the country of origin. Additionally, the calculation factors in the vehicle's cost, freight charges, and insurance expenses.

The GRA urged the public to disregard any misinformation regarding its operations, reaffirming its dedication to upholding integrity and accountability in its mandate to collect revenue for national development.

"The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has followed media discussions on the computation of customs duties and other import taxes on vehicles in foreign currency.

"The claims that GRA calculates duties in foreign currency are misleading and should be disregarded. The basis of calculation of duties is provided for in the Customs Act 2015, (Act 891)," an excerpt of the statement said.

The clarification follows a media interview which has since gone viral.

Eric Boateng, the president of the Automobile Dealers Union, had underscored the adverse effects of this procedure on the car import industry.

In an interview with Citi FM on Wednesday, May 15, Boateng elucidated that although the prices of certain vehicles remain stable in the global market, the imposition of duties at the port, particularly in dollars, greatly affects the domestic car trade.

He further elaborated that importers are obliged to settle their duties and taxes in dollars before clearing their shipments, contradicting the GRA's denial of such allegations.