Deputy Minister justifies communication's 'talk tax' increment

Deputy Minister for Communication, Vincent Sowah Odotei has revealed that the increment in the Communication Service tax is a little cost Ghanaians need to pay to be able to enjoy technology in the country.

According to him, the increment will help in combating money laundering and other cybercrime in the country.

Speaking in an interview with GhanaWeb the Deputy Minister said the increment will go a long way in protect users’ information.

“It is important we look at how we are going to combat (cybercrime) it is an emerging threat. All consumers must understand there is a small price we have to pay to ensure that we continue to endure technology, that is the bottom line. If other means of tackling it comes up, we will do that,” he stated

He added that “it is a responsible step we are taking to ensure that we continue to enjoy technology, we able to socialize and to continue to make sure our data is protected and that is why it is important we bear with this government”.

According to him the increment is far better than non-action which will cost the country more.

The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, announced an increment in Communication Service Tax to nine per cent from the initial six per cent on Monday, 29 July 2019 when he presented the mid-year budget review statement.

Ofori-Atta told the lawmakers that: “The Communication Service Tax (CST) was introduced in 2008 at an ad valorem rate of six per cent. The tax is levied on charges payable by consumers for the use of communication services.

“Government proposes to increase the tax to nine per cent to develop the foundation for the creation of a viable technology ecosystem in the country”.



Meanwhile Member of Parliament for Ningro-Prampram, Sam Nartey George has stated the minority will oppose the increment of the Communication Service Tax as its justification is floored.

According to him, government already has the infrastructure that is fighting cybercrime.