The Ghana Revenue Authority serves as the primary government body for tax and duty administration, playing a vital role in the nation’s economic stability and border security. In the 2023 fiscal year, the authority demonstrated significant operational strength by reporting total tax revenue collection of approximately GHS 113.06 billion, a figure that exceeded its revised targets. Within this framework, the Customs Division is specifically tasked with monitoring the movement of goods and enforcing import and export regulations, ensuring a balance between trade facilitation and national protection.

A key focus of the agency’s recent efforts has been the digitisation of customs processes through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS). This system has streamlined cargo clearing at Ghana’s major trade gateways, including the ports of Tema and Takoradi and Kotoka International Airport. As an officer in the Customs Technical Bureau, Ms Ayanu is involved in the operational oversight of this system, specifically regarding the technical classification and valuation of goods. This bureau acts as the central hub for technical rulings and dispute resolution, ensuring that international standards are upheld at all entry points.

The Ghana Revenue Authority’s participation in the London forum underscores its commitment to international cooperation and the adoption of global best practices. By engaging with trade experts and practitioners from around the world, the authority aims to refine its technical processes and explore new methodologies for enhancing trade transparency. As a member of the World Customs Organization, the GRA remains dedicated to harmonising its procedures with international trade facilitation agreements, which is essential for maintaining Ghana’s position as a critical gateway for West African commerce.

During the forum, the delegation will participate in high-level discussions regarding the impact of technical customs rulings on global trade efficiency. The three-day programme provides an opportunity to evaluate how data-driven systems can be used to mitigate risks while accelerating the flow of legitimate trade. The GRA seeks to share its experiences with the ICUMS transition and gain insights into emerging trends in digital border management and revenue protection.

The modernisation of customs procedures is a technical necessity for any nation seeking to remain competitive in the global marketplace. My objective during this forum is to examine how the rigorous application of valuation and classification standards can be enhanced through international cooperation and shared technical expertise. By aligning our operational frameworks with global transparency initiatives, we can further reduce the time and cost of trade while ensuring that national revenue targets are met with precision.

Maintaining the integrity of the Integrated Customs Management System requires continuous dialogue with international partners. This forum allows us to discuss the practical challenges of border administration and to identify technical solutions that support both domestic economic security and the broader objectives of global trade facilitation.

The forum is convened by the International Trade Council and the International Centre for Trade Transparency & Monitoring. It provides a neutral platform for the exchange of ideas between the public and private sectors, focusing on the practical implementation of policies that support sustainable economic growth. For the Ghana Revenue Authority, the insights gained in London will inform future technical rulings and operational strategies within the Customs Technical Bureau.

About GHANA REVENUE AUTHORITY - CUSTOMS DIVISION
The Ghana Revenue Authority is the government agency responsible for the assessment and collection of taxes and duties in Ghana. Established in 2009, its Customs Division focuses on border protection, the prevention of smuggling, and the facilitation of international trade. The organisation employs between 7,000 and 8,000 personnel and manages the Integrated Customs Management System to ensure efficient revenue collection and trade monitoring across all national entry points.

About the International Trade Council Global Convocation & Leadership Forum
The Global Convocation & Leadership Forum is a high-level assembly of policymakers, trade officials, and senior business executives. Held over three days across various venues in London, the event focuses on advancing international trade, improving market access, and strengthening global supply chains through collaboration and knowledge sharing.

About the International Trade Council
The International Trade Council is a peak-body chamber of commerce that has operated since 1956 as a neutral, non-lobbying entity. It maintains a global network across 179 countries, serving over 28,000 members including businesses, government ministries, and industry associations. The Council is dedicated to reducing trade barriers and fostering sustainable economic growth through research, education, and the promotion of ethical trade practices.

About the International Centre for Trade Transparency and Monitoring
The International Centre for Trade Transparency Limited, trading as the International Centre for Trade Transparency and Monitoring (ICTTM), is a UK-registered commercial spin-off of the International Trade Council. Founded in November 2022, the organisation developed the ADAMftd platform, which utilises artificial intelligence to analyse billions of trade data points. This technology enables users to assess supply chain risks, monitor customs and shipping records, and research global market trends to increase transparency in international commerce.

Media Contact
Flora Edem Ayanu

Operations Officer

GHANA REVENUE AUTHORITY - CUSTOMS DIVISION

[email protected]