President John Dramani Mahama has officially signed into law a series of legislative bills aimed at abolishing several taxes, including the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), Betting Tax, and Emissions Tax. This decision aligns with the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) commitment to reducing the financial burden on Ghanaians.
On March 13, 2025, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented eight bills to Parliament, proposing the repeal and amendment of various taxes and levies. Among them were the Electronic Transfer Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025; Emissions Levy (Repeal) Bill, 2025; Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025; and the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The E-Levy, introduced in 2022, imposed a 1% charge on electronic transactions, including mobile money transfers and online payments. Its implementation faced widespread public opposition due to concerns over its impact on disposable incomes.
Similarly, the Betting Tax, which imposed a 10% charge on gross winnings from gambling activities, drew criticism from stakeholders in the gaming industry.
During the 2024 general election campaign, then-NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama pledged to eliminate these taxes within his first 120 days in office if elected. With his recent approval of the amended tax bills, his administration has successfully delivered on that campaign promise.
