The Government grossed over GHS1 billion in VAT collections for 2010. According to figures from the Ghana Revenue Authority, total collections from VAT, NHIL and Communication Service Tax (talk time tax) amounted to GHS1.61 billion. This is 10 percent more than had been projected for 2010 and nearly GHS400 million more than the 2009 figure. According to Joy Business’ George Wiafe, the Valued Added Tax contributed the highest amount of GHS678 million, 11 per cent more than what it set out to collect last year, but 30 per cent higher than the GHS518 million it got for 2009. The National Health Insurance Levy was able to collect GHS135 million, also an 11 per cent more than targeted. A total of GHS119 million came in from Excise Duty collections, also 30 percent better than projected for 2010. It however showed the strongest growth over the 2009 figures, more than twice the previous year’s collections. Communications Service Tax collections however fell below expectation by 3 percent. It grossed GHS128 million even though that is still nearly 50 per cent more than what was collected the previous year. The tax is 6 per cent ad-valorem on communication services and related activities like internet usage, broadcasting, and satellite. The charge on broadcasting services has until now been ignored. Media houses following the approval of the 2011 budget are expected to begin charging the tax on television and radio commercials as well as other broadcasting related services. It is expected that this would significantly boost its contribution to total collections. Source: Joy News/Ghana