The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) has commenced the enforcement of penalties against companies that have failed to file their Beneficial Ownership (BO) information, as part of renewed efforts to deepen transparency and accountability in Ghana’s corporate sector.

Under the enforcement regime, non-compliant companies will be fined GH¢500 effective Monday, January 12, 2026, the Registrar announced in an official notice.

“This enforcement follows several reminders issued to companies to comply with the Beneficial Ownership disclosure requirement,” the ORC stated. “Despite the grace period provided, some companies have still not filed their BO information, necessitating the commencement of penalties.”

The move comes after an earlier public notice issued on October 15, 2025, which urged all existing companies to submit their Beneficial Ownership details by October 30, 2025. The ORC said the deadline was ignored by a section of registered entities.

According to the Registrar, the action is firmly grounded in law. “The enforcement is in accordance with Sections 13(2)(m) and 373(1) of the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992), which require companies to declare individuals who ultimately own, control or exercise significant influence over the company,” the statement said.

The Beneficial Ownership filing obligation applies to private and public companies limited by shares, companies limited by guarantee, unlimited liability companies, and external companies operating in Ghana.

The ORC further warned that the consequences of non-compliance go beyond the administrative penalty. “Any individual who fails to provide Beneficial Ownership information, or who knowingly provides false or misleading information, commits an offence under the Companies Act,” the Registrar cautioned.

Under Section 35(14) and (15) of Act 992, offenders are liable, upon summary conviction, to a fine of not less than 150 and not more than 250 penalty units, or a prison term of between one and two years, or both.

The Registrar emphasised that compliance is essential for improving Ghana’s business climate. “Compliance with Beneficial Ownership disclosure is not just a legal requirement. It is critical to promoting accountability, transparency, and trust in Ghana’s corporate and investment environment,” the ORC stressed.

The Office has therefore urged affected companies to act swiftly. “Companies are encouraged to take immediate steps to regularize their status and avoid penalties,” the statement added.

For further clarification, the ORC has advised companies to contact the office via 0302-666-081, or through WhatsApp and Telegram on 059-952-5774, and to follow its official social media platforms @ORC Ghana for updates.