The Ministry of Finance has cautioned that no individual or interest group will be permitted to hinder the rollout of a new Artificial Intelligence-powered customs system designed to strengthen revenue mobilisation and improve compliance at Ghana’s ports.

Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Apem Nyarko, announced that the AI-driven platform is scheduled to go live next month, describing it as a major reform critical to enhancing domestic revenue generation and supporting smarter decision-making within the customs administration.

Addressing customs officers at the 2026 International Customs Day celebration, Mr Apem Nyarko urged officials to fully embrace the reform agenda, stressing the government’s resolve to see the system deployed without obstruction.

“We are very determined to ensure that nobody stands in the way of the deployment of this important tool that will help us get the right revenue for the state,” he said.

He noted that the technology is expected to improve efficiency and professionalism within the customs service while balancing the needs of the state and the trading community.

“Our goal is to build a customs administration that is efficient, professional, and responsive, while ensuring a secure and safe environment for all stakeholders,” the Deputy Minister added.

The comments come against the backdrop of broader government efforts to plug revenue leakages and strengthen compliance across the country’s trade ecosystem, particularly at key entry points.

Meanwhile, Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Sarpong, reminded customs officials that their responsibilities extend beyond revenue collection to supporting national development.

“Revenue is the lifeblood of the nation. Without it, our country cannot develop. What we do every day is national development, not just revenue mobilisation,” he stated, underscoring the central role of customs operations in Ghana’s economic progress.