The Office of the Vice President has highlighted the need to transform the economic sector by effectively mobilizing revenue and creating an equitable tax regime.
Addressing the gathering on behalf of the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang as the Special Guest of honour at the Graduation Ceremony for Customs Division Officer Cadets, Chief of Staff Alex Segbefia noted the crucial role of the Ghana Revenue Authority in bridging the gap caused by the recent dip in international funding.
“The recent closure of some international funding sources has significant impact on African countries, and Ghana is no exception. This situation presents challenges, but more importantly, it clarifies our path forward. Now more than ever, there is the pressing need to develop home-grown solutions to our national challenges.
“Government is, amongst other measures, reviewing the tax exemption regime to promote transparency, economic growth, and technology transfer and job creation. Reviewing and rationalizing port fees to enhance trade competitiveness and maximize revenue”, among others.
“To achieve these measures, the role of the Ghana Revenue Authority is indispensable. The revenue you collect represents the lifeblood of our national development agenda.
“Every cedi properly assessed and collected becomes the building blocks in a new school, medicine in a rural hospital, or investment in our nation’s critical infrastructure. Your vigilance at our ports and land borders will help to curtail smuggling while protecting Ghanaian businesses from unfair competition”.
Alex Segbefia disclosed plans to improve the staff capacity of the Customs Division to boost revenue collection.
Despite the staff requirement of five thousand, three hundred and twenty nine, the Customs Division capacity falls short with a current staff capacity of two thousand, six hundred and thirty five. Alex Segbefia says plans are underway to resource the sector.
“Government is very committed to equipping the Ghana Revenue Authority to maximize revenue generation, and my presence here this morning is a testament to that effect. I am reliably informed that the Customs Division is understaffed.
“In the coming days, the government will take the necessary steps to improve the staff conditions and adequately resource the division,” he assured.