Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson is expected to present the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on November 13, Joy Business has learned from persons familiar with the preparation process.

The proposed date, which is subject to parliamentary approval, will mark the government’s first major budget presentation since winning the 2024 elections and having nearly nine months to steer the economy.

Some analysts have observed that the 2025 Budget largely operated within the framework established by the previous administration.

Under the Public Financial Management Act, the Finance Minister—acting on behalf of the President—is required to present the national budget to Parliament no later than November 15 each year.

The Finance Ministry has reportedly completed several rounds of stakeholder engagements and industry consultations to finalise the policies and programs that will feature in the 2026 Budget.

Expectations

Dr Forson has indicated in earlier interviews that the 2026 Budget will focus on job creation and economic growth stimulation.

Sources also suggest that the Finance Minister is set to introduce new policy measures aimed at reforming the tax system and improving revenue mobilisation.

According to the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Sarpong, the 2026 Budget will include a review of the Value Added Tax (VAT), with the effective rate expected to be reduced from 22% to 20%.

This adjustment is part of ongoing reforms to simplify the VAT structure and make it more business-friendly.

Additionally, Dr Forson is expected to review several tax levies, including the COVID-19 levy, as part of efforts to ease the tax burden on businesses and households.

With Ghana set to exit the IMF programme in May 2026, attention will also be on how the Finance Minister plans to manage the economy in the post-programme period.

The 2026 Budget will, therefore, be one of the government’s most significant economic policy documents, setting the tone for fiscal management and growth strategy after the IMF programme.

Another key area of interest for industry players and economists will be how Dr Ato Forson intends to manage the fiscal deficit and expenditure in 2026 while maintaining macroeconomic stability.