The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a detailed clarification following widespread social media posts alleging extortion and unfair treatment of a traveller who paid GHC12,690.63 as import duty for mobile phones and accessories at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
In a statement, the GRA expressed empathy for the traveller’s “unpleasant experience” but firmly refuted claims of extortion, detention, or confiscation of goods.
The Authority detailed that the incident, which occurred on December 5, 2025, involved a traveller who arrived at KIA carrying eighteen (18) mobile phones and various accessories. Crucially, these goods were not declared upon arrival and exceeded the allowable personal concession limits set out in the Exemptions Act 2022 (Act 1083).
According to the GRA, the quantity of phones was deemed to be commercial, necessitating the payment of applicable duties. The process was handled professionally: a Bill of Entry (BOE No. 41225803295) was issued, and the duty payment was processed through the official Customs platform (ICUMS), after which an official receipt was provided to the traveller.
The GRA stressed that the procedure applied is standard for all travellers carrying commercial quantities of goods.
The Authority used the opportunity to urge all travellers using Ghana’s ports of entry to voluntarily declare and pay duty if they are carrying items in commercial quantities. Travellers with any queries or uncertainty regarding their baggage are advised to contact Customs officers on arrival for assistance.
The GRA reaffirmed its commitment to providing transparent, fair, and efficient service while encouraging the public to “know our taxes, pay our taxes and help build Ghana.”
The amount paid (GHC12,690.63) suggests a substantial duty and tax calculation for 18 phones and accessories.
By Eben Agyekum-Boateng, 3Business
