Accra: Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has advocated for a tax system in Ghana that effectively generates necessary revenue for the country's development while remaining fair and efficient. Speaking at the 14th Annual International Tax Conference organized by the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Ghana (CITG), Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the need for a tax system that supports both businesses and individuals.
According to Ghana Web, the Vice President highlighted the government's efforts to ease the tax burden and simplify the tax system. However, she noted that merely reforming tax laws is insufficient. She underscored the importance of improving tax administration through technology and data, simpler processes, and enhanced taxpayer education to facilitate easier compliance.
Additionally, Professor Opoku-Agyemang pointed out the critical role of trust between taxpayers and tax authorities. She emphasized that individuals are more likely to fulfill their tax obligations when they understand the system, perceive it as fair, and can interact with authorities without unnecessary challenges. The Vice President urged tax professionals to assist in building this trust by educating businesses and individuals about their obligations, supporting compliance, and providing expertise in policy development.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang also stressed the importance of Ghana's technical preparedness in the evolving landscape of business and international taxation. She called for stronger collaboration with other African countries to ensure that Ghana and the continent's interests are effectively represented in global tax discussions.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has set an ambitious target to mobilize GHS310 billion in tax revenue by 2028, doubling the amount collected in 2024. GRA Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong explained that this target is based on sustained annual revenue growth of at least 20 percent. He outlined progressive revenue goals, with collections expected to reach GHS225 billion in 2026, GHS260 billion in 2027, and GHS310 billion by 2028. Sarpong stated that these targets are part of a medium-term strategy to ensure sustainable domestic revenue mobilization for national development.
In another development, Ernestina Christina Appiah, President of CITG, appealed for support to establish a permanent secretariat for the institute. She mentioned that the CITG currently operates from temporary office space provided by the University of Professional Studies, Accra. Despite appreciating this support, Appiah argued that the arrangement is inadequate for an institution with statutory responsibilities and a growing membership. She stressed the need for a permanent secretariat to effectively regulate the tax profession.