Accra: Parliament has passed the Excise Bill, 2026, approving a zero excise duty policy for locally manufactured fruit juices as part of measures to reduce prices, promote healthier consumption, and support Ghana's agro-processing industry. The new legislation aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and bolster local businesses by making fruit juices more affordable and competitive in the market.
According to Ghana Web, the law also outlines the rules for charging and collecting excise taxes on certain imported and locally manufactured products that are subject to the tax. Additionally, it maintains the mandatory use of Excise Tax Stamps on applicable products to ensure compliance and improve revenue administration.
Presenting the Bill to Parliament, Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, highlighted the introduction of an incentive-based excise system for beer and other beverages. Under this system, tax rates will be determined by the level of locally sourced raw materials used in production, providing reduced excise rates for manufacturers relying more on local inputs.
Ampem emphasized that the policy is expected to boost demand for locally produced agricultural commodities and assist manufacturers in reducing their dependence on imported materials. He announced that locally produced fruit juices, including those from companies such as Blue Skies and Akumfi, would be exempt from excise duty, further enhancing the competitiveness of local products.
The Deputy Minister stated that the removal of taxes on locally produced juices would lower costs and encourage consumers to opt for healthier options, aligning with the government's goal to promote better dietary habits among the population.