In a landmark fiscal move, Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has signed into law a set of legislative bills officially repealing three controversial taxes: the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), the Betting and Lottery Tax, and the Emissions Tax.
The repeal, approved by Parliament on March 26, 2025, fulfills a core campaign promise of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and aims to ease the financial burden on citizens, boost economic activity, and restore confidence in the country’s digital and gaming ecosystems.
The E-Levy, previously a 1% charge on mobile money transactions and other digital transfers, had faced widespread opposition for stifling electronic payments and discouraging financial inclusion. The 10% tax on betting and lottery winnings, equally unpopular among younger demographics and the gaming industry, has also been revoked.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who introduced the repeal bills on March 13, hailed the reforms as "an immediate relief for households and businesses" and “a step toward sustainable and inclusive growth.”
President Mahama’s administration also eliminated the Emissions Levy and VAT on motor vehicle insurance policies, signaling broader efforts to cut operational costs for individuals and companies across Ghana.
Economic analysts note that the removal of these taxes could stimulate consumer spending, digital adoption, and investment in the entertainment and tech sectors—key areas for youth employment and innovation.
The bills, signed into law at the Jubilee House on April 3, 2025, underscore the NDC’s push toward progressive taxation and financial accessibility as pillars of Ghana’s post-pandemic recovery strategy.
