The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has collected GH¢68.05 billion in the first half of 2024, surpassing its mid-year target by GH¢138.69 million, representing a 0.2% excess collection.
At a media briefing in Accra, Commissioner-General Julie Essiam highlighted the authority’s achievement, noting a 37.6% nominal growth compared to the same period last year.
“The devoted staff of GRA outperformed and exceeded the revenue target by an exceptional 21.2% in June,” she stated.
Despite a challenging first quarter with revenue falling short of targets in January, February, and March, the GRA rebounded from April onwards. The significant 21.2% increase in June played a crucial role in achieving a positive half-year performance.
Ms. Essiam also shared insights into their strategic focus, including the successful rollout of the Electronic VAT Invoicing System. “We exceeded our target of 600, and onboarded 614 taxpayers as of the June 30 deadline,” she said, emphasizing the system’s potential to gather real-time data on taxpayers.
In line with the government’s fiscal policies, as championed by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the GRA has registered 176,524 taxpayers against a target of 144,000 by mid-year and continues to implement measures to widen the tax net. Upcoming initiatives include training programs in customer experience and designating August as a tax education month in collaboration with various faith-based organizations.
Ms. Essiam affirmed the GRA’s commitment to enhancing operations and maintaining a transparent tax regime, while also prioritizing staff welfare and taxpayer collaboration.