By Yvonne Atilego
Government says the E-levy still stands at 1.75 %. However, it will continue to engage the Minority in Parliament and other stakeholders including mobile network operators to come to a compromise in getting the e-levy approved.
According to the government, the levy has a significant impact on Ghana’s fiscal situation, hence the need to reach consensus on it.
The 1.75 % tax on all digital financial transactions; E-levy, is one of the main proposals of the government in the 2022 budget. The tax has since met mixed reactions, with Ghanaians kicking against it and stressing that it will only place an extra burden on their finances. The Minority announced that it will not support approval of the proposal.
Addressing the media in Accra, Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta said the e-levy is the country’s best bet to increase its tax base and help to meet the average tax to GDP ratio on the Continent.
The Finance Minister also noted that some modifications have been made to the 2022 Budget and have been submitted to the Speaker of Parliament.
GH₵10Million for Coast Erosion
Government says it will commit at least GH₵10Million to preparing a plan to fight Coastal Erosion in worst-affected communities.
Addressing the media in Accra, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, said the government is also eyeing a more holistic solution to floods caused by tidal waves that recently displaced some 3, 000 persons in the Anlo District, Keta, and Ketu South Municipalities.
Mr. Ofori Atta noted that they will broaden the scope of the study to consider a more comprehensive solution to protect Ghana’s 540 kilometres of Coastlines, including the 149 kilometres between Aflao and Prampram.