AmCham Ghana and GRA Spark Tax Transparency Talks with U.S. Business C

AmCham Ghana and GRA Engage U.S. Business Community in Tax Transparency Talks

The American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana (AmCham Ghana) recently partnered with the U.S. Embassy Economic and Commercial Section to hold a U.S.-Ghana Commercial Dialogue with the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Akwesi Sarpong. The forum, held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the residence of the U.S. Chief of Mission in Accra, brought together private-sector leaders and senior GRA officials to discuss tax transparency, compliance, and measures to strengthen business confidence.

Tax Transparency and Compliance at the Forefront

AmCham Ghana Board Director Nana Joe Mensah stressed the importance of candid discussions and continued policy engagement between the private sector and government institutions. "If you were to put a Venn diagram together, GRA would be right in the middle," Nana Joe Mensah said, highlighting that the Chamber viewed the engagement as an opportunity for dialogue rather than a list of demands.

GRA's Reform Agenda and Technology-Driven Tax Compliance

Commissioner-General Anthony Akwesi Sarpong outlined the GRA's ongoing reform agenda, including reviews of the VAT Act, Customs Act, and Excise Bill, as well as an upcoming review of the Income Tax Act. He also highlighted the expanded use of technology for tax compliance and reporting, improved dispute resolution, and measures to support small businesses.

Private-Sector Concerns and Commitments from the GRA

During the moderated session, private-sector participants raised concerns about VAT refund timelines, access to compliance certificates, and incentives for local value addition. Commissioner-General Sarpong committed to continued engagement with AmCham members on these issues. AmCham Ghana Chief Executive Officer Doris Afanyedey said concerns raised by members through the Chamber's sector committees showed that the GRA was central to several challenges confronting businesses.

The GRA's commitment to ongoing engagement with the private sector reflects a growing recognition of the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by businesses in Ghana. As the GRA continues to implement its reform agenda, the dialogue between the GRA and the private sector will be crucial in ensuring that the needs and concerns of businesses are addressed. With the GRA's commitment to continued engagement, the stage is set for a more collaborative and transparent approach to tax compliance and business confidence in Ghana.

Source: JOY