In a significant legislative move, Ghana’s Parliament has voted to repeal the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), a tax that has been a point of contention since its introduction in 2022.
The repeal, passed on March 26, 2025, now awaits President John Mahama’s assent to become law.
Background on the E-Levy
- The E-Levy was instituted by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration as a 1.5% tax on electronic transactions, including mobile money transfers, bank transfers, and online payments.
- Proponents argued that it would generate essential revenue for infrastructural development.
- However, the levy faced widespread opposition from the public, businesses, and political figures, who contended that it disproportionately affected low-income earners and the unbanked population.
Next Steps
With parliamentary approval secured, the bill now awaits President Mahama’s signature to be enacted into law.
The administration has expressed confidence that the necessary legislative processes will be completed promptly, allowing for the implementation of the repeal by the end of March 2025.
