Government Signals Possible Relief as Pump Prices Surge Toward GH₵17

In a move that could provide a much-needed "cushion" for Ghanaian motorists, the government has signaled that it is finally open to reviewing the controversial taxes and levies embedded in petroleum prices.

The hint of a policy shift comes as the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) officially implemented its new "price floor" for the April 1–15 window today. Under the new directive, petrol cannot be sold below GH₵13.30 per litre, while diesel has hit a staggering minimum of GH₵17.10 per litre.

The "Epic Fury" Effect
The sudden spike at the pumps is largely driven by global factors. Following the launch of military action in the Middle East and the near-total closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Brent crude has hovered above $112 per barrel.

Analysts warn that if these tensions persist, petrol prices in Ghana could soon hit GH₵17.00, while diesel could soar past GH₵20.00. It is this "worst-case scenario" that has forced the Ministry of Finance to look inward at the taxes the state itself controls.

Minority Renews Call to "Scrap the Cedi Levy"
The Minority in Parliament, led by Deputy Ranking Member on the Energy Committee Collins Adomako Mensah, has intensified its demand for the immediate repeal of the GH₵1 per litre fuel levy introduced in 2025.

"The justification for this levy no longer exists," Mensah told journalists. "It was meant to settle legacy debts and procurement costs that have already been addressed. Keeping it now isn't policy; it’s punishment."

The Minority is calling for the Energy Sector Levy Amendment Act to be repealed under a certificate of urgency to prevent a "direct economic assault" on ordinary citizens.
For Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the decision is a difficult one. While removing the taxes would provide relief to citizens, the 2026 Budget relies heavily on revenue from the energy sector to fund the "Big Push" infrastructure projects and the upcoming Free Primary Healthcare rollout.

However, with inflation currently at a 27-year low of 3.3%, the government is keen to avoid any sharp spike in transport costs that could send inflation spiraling back into double digits.