Accra: The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has advised prospective buyers of imported used vehicles to verify that all import duties have been duly paid before completing any purchase to avoid financial losses and possible seizure. Mr Michel Adu Manu, Senior Revenue Officer at the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB), Vehicle Valuation Unit, emphasized the importance of not relying solely on documentary evidence but also subjecting vehicles to physical verification by Customs officers.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Manu provided this guidance at a media forum organized by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) on the topic: 'Understanding Vehicle Valuation in Ghana: Customs Procedures, Duties and Importer Responsibilities.' He highlighted the initial step for buyers to verify a vehicle's duty status using the Vehicle Calculator on the External ICUMS/UNIPASS platform by entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), chassis number, make, and model. However, he stressed that this online verification should be followed by a physical inspection at any Customs office to confirm that the chassis number had not been tampered with.
Mr Manu explained that physical verification is crucial for ensuring the authenticity of the vehicle before purchase. He cautioned against the unlawful sale of temporarily imported vehicles bearing foreign registration numbers, which are sold without the required import duties being paid. Such vehicles are initially allowed into the country under temporary import arrangements and are expected to leave Ghana after the authorized period unless regularized through Customs.
He warned potential buyers that failing to verify the duty status of these vehicles could result in them being impounded during enforcement operations post-purchase. The Senior Revenue Officer urged prospective buyers to exercise due diligence by confirming the customs status of imported vehicles before making payment. This measure, he said, would protect buyers from avoidable losses and ensure compliance with the country's customs regulations.