Accra: Commercial transport operators have suspended their planned 30% increase in transport fares after meeting with the Ministry of Transport. The decision follows discussions between the Ministry and transport unions over the rising cost of fuel and other operational expenses.
According to Ghana Web, the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Samuel Amoah, explained that the union presented its concerns to the Ministry, which assured them that efforts were being made to reduce fuel prices. "The meeting was about the proposed transport fare increment before the increment of petroleum products and other components that we use to run our businesses. We explained things to the Ministry, and they also gave us their word," he said.
Amoah noted that the union urged the government to take steps to reduce fuel prices to ease the burden on transport operators. "Our proposal was for the government to try to see to it that fuel prices will come down, and they told us that they have heard us and are working to ensure fuel prices will drop," he stated.
After extensive discussions, both parties agreed that the proposed fare increase should be put on hold for now. "So, there was a long deliberation, but we finally agreed that we will hold off on the increase, but then our own investigation proved that we will likely see another fuel price increase in the next pricing window," Amoah said.
However, he warned that transport operators could return to the negotiating table if fuel prices increase again. "If it happens that the fuel price goes up again, we will still approach them because if it goes up again, it will be difficult for the drivers to contain the pressure," he added.
The unions had threatened to increase fares ahead of the next petroleum products pricing window on Friday, July 31, 2026.