GRA to clampdown on uncustomed vehicles from October 1

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has launched a two-month tax amnesty program for individuals using uncustomed vehicles, effective August 1 to September 30, 2024. The initiative aims to encourage voluntary compliance with tax laws and avoid confiscation of vehicles.

According to Mr. Justice Njornan Magah Ydjayime, Chief Revenue Officer and Supervisor of the Vehicle Valuation Unit, at the Customs Technical Service Bureau (CTSB), the program applies to vehicles smuggled into the country or those that have exceeded the 90-day temporary import period without renewal.

Speaking on Eye on Port, he warned that failure to comply will result in a 300% penalty in addition to the duty on the vehicle.

He said the GRA conducts annual tax education campaigns and grants amnesty to owners of unregistered vehicles and this year's amnesty period allows customers to visit any customs office to fulfil their tax obligations.

The annual exercise, he said, has shown to be an effective means of raising revenue over time, hence, has been included in Section 652 of the Revenue Administration Act, which grants the Commissioner General the authority to declare amnesty.

“You are allowed to come to customs office and then the assessment will be done for you to go and pay or fulfil your tax obligation and then you will go to DVLA and have the vehicle registered in your name,” he added.

Mr. Ydjayime warned that driving unregistered vehicles will result in detention and potential auctioning if not claimed within 30 days.

He refuted claims that the uncustomed vehicles would be confiscated when owners show up to take advantage of the amnesty granted.

He cautioned the public against purchasing cars from unreliable sellers, as they may not have paid duty despite being registered in Ghana.

“The GRA encourages individuals to take advantage of the tax amnesty program to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with the law,” he said.

Mr. Ydjayime said from October 1, 2024, officials of the Customs division of GRA will embark on a road surveillance across the country to appapprehend all uncustomed vehicles.

He said customs will deploy the use of technology.