Deloitte Ghana has cautioned that the removal of certain taxes in the 2025 Budget could pose a risk to the government’s revenue targets due to potential revenue losses.
In its analysis, the professional services firm highlighted concerns over the scrapping of the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy), Betting Tax, and Emissions Levy, as announced by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
Deloitte recommended extensive stakeholder engagement with businesses affected by these measures to secure their buy-in and commitment. However, it commended the government’s revenue-enhancing strategies aimed at mitigating potential shortfalls.
The firm also warned that the planned upward review of the Growth and Sustainability Levy for mining companies, if not properly managed, could stifle growth in the sector.
On the reintroduction of road tolls with a tech-driven toll administration system, Deloitte acknowledged the potential efficiency gains but advised that the initiative should be guided by a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to ensure its viability.
Urgent Need for Tax Expansion
Beyond the proposed revenue measures, Deloitte urged the government to prioritize expanding the tax net to include the informal sector, which holds significant untapped revenue potential.
“In this regard, we believe the use of technology, tax education, awareness creation, and reforms to simplify compliance will be key for achieving this objective,” the firm noted.
For 2025, the government projects total revenue and grants of GH¢224.9 billion, an increase from the GH¢186.6 billion in 2024. Tax revenue is estimated at GH¢181.6 billion, representing 80.7% of total projected revenue and grants. Deloitte attributed this projection to improved revenue measures, expected to contribute an additional 0.6% of GDP.