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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed strong support for Ghana’s new GH¢1 fuel levy, describing it as a vital step toward stabilizing the country’s energy sector and advancing its broader fiscal reforms under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme.
The Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy—set to impose a GH¢1 charge per litre on petroleum products—seeks to address persistent debt and financial imbalances within Ghana’s energy industry.
Julie Kozack, Director of the IMF’s Communications Department, said during a press briefing that the levy would help the government meet key fiscal objectives while addressing structural inefficiencies in the sector.
“This new measure will help generate additional resources to tackle the challenges in Ghana’s energy sector and support the delivery of the fiscal goals under the programme,” she stated.
The levy has, however, faced pushback from the Minority in Parliament, who argue it places an added burden on consumers already grappling with a high cost of living. In response, government officials maintain that the price increase at the pumps will be minimal and remains below past inflation-era levels.
Initially set to take effect on June 9, 2025, the implementation of the levy has been postponed to June 16, 2025, following discussions between the government and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies.
Meanwhile, consumer advocacy groups such as the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers are calling for greater stakeholder engagement and transparency in how the levy’s proceeds will be managed.
