IMF acknowledges Ghana’s strong revenue performance, progress in tax administration reforms

The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Sarpong, has welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) recognition of Ghana’s strong revenue performance in 2026 and progress in implementing key tax administration reforms.

The IMF, in its first review under Ghana’s Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI), acknowledged the country’s revenue mobilisation efforts and highlighted progress in reforms aimed at strengthening tax administration and improving domestic revenue generation.

Among the key developments highlighted by the Fund were the early completion of the review of customs and excise legislation, ongoing digitalisation through the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) and electronic fiscal devices, as well as prospects for increased non-oil revenue in 2027.

Sarpong said the IMF’s assessment underscored the important contribution of the GRA to Ghana’s economic recovery and efforts to strengthen fiscal stability.

He noted that the recognition reflected the collective efforts of the Authority’s management and staff, as well as the cooperation of taxpayers in supporting the country’s revenue mobilisation agenda.

"Our focus remains on strengthening revenue mobilisation, improving taxpayer services, modernising customs operations, and investing in the technical competence, leadership development and working conditions of our staff," he said.

Anthony Sarpong said the Authority would continue to pursue reforms that make tax administration more efficient, transparent and responsive to the needs of taxpayers.

He added that digitalisation remained a key component of the GRA’s modernisation agenda, as the Authority seeks to improve compliance, streamline tax processes, reduce administrative bottlenecks and make it easier for individuals and businesses to meet their tax obligations.

The continued implementation of ITAS and electronic fiscal devices is expected to support more effective tax monitoring, improve the accuracy of revenue reporting and strengthen the Authority’s ability to identify and address compliance gaps.

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The Commissioner-General also emphasised the importance of building the capacity of GRA personnel, noting that sustained institutional performance would depend not only on technology and policy reforms but also on the competence, commitment and welfare of staff.

He commended employees of the Authority for their dedication and hard work, while expressing appreciation to taxpayers for their continued contributions to national development.

"I commend our hardworking staff and appreciate all taxpayers for their continued contributions to national development," he said.

Anthony Sarpong reaffirmed the GRA’s commitment to building an institution that delivers efficient services, promotes voluntary tax compliance and supports Ghana’s broader economic development objectives.

"Together, we are building a more efficient, transparent and service-oriented GRA for a stronger Ghana," he added.

The IMF's assessment comes amid Ghana's broader efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation, improve public financial management and consolidate the gains from its ongoing economic recovery programme.

DR/MA

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