GRA TO DEPLOY AI SYSTEM TO COMBAT IMPORT FRAUD FROM FEBRUARY 1

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) will begin implementing an artificial intelligence-powered import monitoring system at the country’s ports from February 1, 2026, starting with the Tema Port.

The new system, known as the Publican Trade Solution, is designed to enhance cargo processing, tackle import fraud and improve customs revenue mobilisation. According to estimates from the Ministry of Finance, the platform could increase customs revenue by between 40% and 45%, while addressing long-standing inefficiencies in cargo valuation and declaration processes.

Data from the 2026 Budget revealed that between April 2020 and August 2025, over 525,000 import declaration form (IDF) transactions worth approximately $83bn were processed through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), but only 10,440 were linked to actual imports. This led to estimated revenue losses of GH¢11bn through under-declared imports valued at GH¢76bn and suspicious transfers totalling $31bn without corresponding goods.

Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, said during a media briefing on January 16 that the new AI system will allow real-time inspection of shipment documents, cross-check declarations with global benchmarks, and flag suspicious activity instantly. He assured importers that the platform would not delay cargo clearance or introduce new charges.

“Those who comply fully have nothing to fear,” he stated. “But from February, all importers must be prepared to pay the accurate duties on what they bring into the country.”

Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, described the system as a decisive shift in Ghana’s approach to customs compliance and revenue assurance. He noted that gaps in the ICUMS regime, especially related to valuation and classification, highlighted the need for a predictive and intelligent tool to support customs officers beyond manual processes.

“This platform does not replace our officers; it strengthens them by providing real-time intelligence that would otherwise take weeks or months to uncover,” he said.

Sarpong added that early results from a pilot phase had already demonstrated the system’s ability to recover significant amounts of underpaid revenue. He stressed that the rollout would be conducted transparently and with continued engagement from stakeholders.

“Our goal is not to punish trade, but to protect the integrity of Ghana’s revenue system while facilitating legitimate commerce,” he said.

Source:NKONKONSA.com