GRA credits Publican AI system for exposing GH¢11bn port leakages

The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Anthony Sarpong, has revealed that the introduction of artificial intelligence at Ghana’s ports is not only strengthening revenue monitoring but also helping to create a fairer and more competitive business environment.

Speaking on Joy FM Super Morning Show on Friday, April 10, 2026, Sarpong said the deployment of the Publican AI system is already addressing long-standing imbalances in the import sector.

He explained that for years, some importers exploited loopholes within the system to under-declare goods, giving them an undue advantage over compliant businesses.

“Those who under-declare are not paying the right taxes, and they have an advantage in pricing over those who comply,” he said.

According to him, the AI-powered system is now able to detect such discrepancies across all declarations, ensuring that more traders meet their full tax obligations.

GRA orders mandatory use of Publican AI system for all import clearances

“If we are able to bring that 25 per cent to pay correctly, they will be at par with everybody, and market distortions will be fair,” he stated.

Sarpong noted that this shift is critical in restoring confidence among legitimate businesses that have long been disadvantaged by unfair competition.

“This is not just about revenue; it is about fairness and ensuring that everyone plays by the same rules,” he added.

He further explained that, unlike the previous manual system, which relied heavily on human intervention and selective checks, the AI system reviews every single import declaration submitted at the ports.

“This is the revelation after introducing Publican. It is Publican that has given us this insight,” he said.

He added that the system’s real-time analysis is exposing inconsistencies that would have otherwise gone unnoticed, marking a significant improvement in port oversight.

Sarpong emphasised that while the financial gains are important, the broader impact lies in creating a transparent and balanced trading environment where compliance is rewarded, and malpractice is minimised.

SO/EB

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