E-Levy Finally Scrapped in Ghana After Public Outcry
Controversial Digital Tax Officially Removed
The long-awaited removal of Ghana’s controversial Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) has finally become reality. On March 2, 2025, President John Mahama signed the Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill 2025 into law, marking the end of what many citizens considered a regressive tax policy.
From Implementation to Abolition
Originally introduced in 2022, the E-Levy faced immediate public backlash. Despite widespread opposition from citizens and financial stakeholders who argued it would:
- Increase financial burdens on ordinary Ghanaians
- Undermine financial inclusion progress
- Disproportionately affect digital transactions
the previous administration maintained its implementation.
What the Repeal Means
The repealed law had imposed taxes on:
- Mobile Money transactions
- Bank transfers
- Inward remittances
Initially set at 1.75%, the rate was later reduced to 1% following continued public pressure.
Public Reaction to the Removal
Many Ghanaians have welcomed the repeal, with some calling the E-Levy “the most senseless tax” implemented in recent years. The removal is expected to:
- Reduce transaction costs for individuals and businesses
- Boost digital financial services adoption
- Put more money back into citizens’ pockets
The repeal follows through on campaign promises made during the December 2024 elections that brought the new administration into power.
By Emmanuel K Dogbevi