The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has issued a strong ultimatum to the government, demanding the removal of taxes on petroleum products within 48 hours. The union warns that failure to act will leave transport operators with no choice but to push for an increase in transport fares across the country.
Speaking in an interview on the AM Show, the union’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Samuel Amoah, explained that the decision follows a steep rise in fuel prices and the growing financial strain on transport operators. He noted that the union had formally communicated its concerns to the government and is expecting swift intervention.
According to Amoah, if the government does not take steps to cushion the impact of the fuel price hikes—particularly by reducing or eliminating fuel-related taxes—transport operators will be compelled to adjust fares to stay in business. He stressed that the situation has become unsustainable for drivers and vehicle owners.
The warning comes on the back of a new pricing directive from the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), which announced updated minimum ex-pump prices for the period of April 1 to April 15. Under the new pricing structure, petrol is set at a minimum of GHS 13.30 per litre, while diesel now stands at GHS 17.10 per litre. This marks a significant increase compared to the previous pricing window that ended on March 31, when petrol and diesel were priced at GHS 11.57 and GHS 14.35 per litre respectively.
The surge in fuel prices has been linked to developments on the global stage, particularly escalating tensions in the Middle East. Reports indicate that a military operation by the United States against Iran—referred to as Operation Epic Fury—triggered a series of retaliatory actions. The situation intensified further with disruptions to oil supply routes, including the temporary closure of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a key channel for global oil shipments.
As a result, international crude oil prices have risen sharply, crossing the $100 per barrel mark. Within the current pricing window alone, prices climbed by approximately 26.21%, increasing from $86.20 to $109.23 per barrel. This global trend has directly impacted domestic fuel pricing in Ghana.
In addition to global oil price shocks, the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi has compounded the situation. The local currency weakened slightly against the US dollar, moving from an interbank rate of GHS 10.91 to GHS 11.05 per dollar. Although marginal, this depreciation has contributed to higher import costs for fuel and related products.
Amoah emphasized that fuel costs are only one part of the burden facing transport operators. He pointed to a range of additional expenses that have surged in recent months. The cost of spare parts has increased significantly, while insurance premiums for commercial vehicles have also seen sharp hikes.
For instance, insurance premiums for “printer” buses have risen from GHS 933 to GHS 1,194—an increase of over GHS 260. Similarly, Toyota minibuses now pay GHS 995, up from GHS 837. Beyond this, charges from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), particularly penalties for late vehicle insurance renewals, have more than doubled, adding further pressure on operators.
The GPRTU has indicated that it will soon hold an internal meeting to evaluate the situation and determine the extent of any potential fare increases. Any proposed adjustments would then be submitted to the Ministry of Transport for approval, in line with regulatory requirements.
However, Amoah made it clear that the outcome largely depends on the government’s response. While acknowledging that authorities may have limited control over global oil prices, he argued that domestic tax policies remain a critical lever. Without intervention, he warned, transport operators will be forced to take matters into their own hands to cope with rising operational costs, a move that could directly impact commuters nationwide.
