The GRA Commissioner has introduced stringent measures for border security and revenue collection at the 2025 International World Customs Day event. Key themes include efficiency, security, and prosperity, emphasizing compliance, modernization, and collaboration with stakeholders. Despite revenue challenges, there is optimism for meeting goals and improving customs operations.
Brigadier General Ziblim Bawah Ayorrogo, the Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division, has announced a series of stringent measures aimed at ensuring that only approved goods enter Ghana, thereby enhancing revenue collection. This announcement was made during the celebration of the 2025 International World Customs Day, emphasizing the theme “Customs Delivering on its Commitments to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.” He reinforced the division’s commitment to maintaining national safety standards and preventing the entry of substandard imports.
Despite facing challenges and decreased imports affecting revenue collection, particularly in the first quarter of the year, Brigadier General Ayorrogo expressed optimism about achieving revenue targets. He referenced the World Customs Organization (WCO) and its focus on translating commitments into practical actions that encourage trade facilitation, bolster security, and foster sustainable economic development.
Elaborating on the theme, Ayorrogo delineated efficiency as being propelled by modernization of customs procedures and digital services, alongside collaborative efforts with public and private sectors. He categorized security actions as those that protect supply chains, prevent illicit goods trafficking, combat money laundering, and enhance readiness for crises. Prosperity involves fair revenue collection, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and establishing inclusive policies that cater to the diverse citizenry.
The Commissioner underscored the necessity for customs to improve visibility and communication regarding their initiatives and outcomes, advocating for better engagement with the government and society. Alhaji Iddrisu Iddisah Seidu, the event’s chairman, highlighted customs’ essential role in global trade facilitation and border protection, acknowledging their often-overlooked but significant contributions to economic growth.
Assistant Commissioner Theresah Portakey from the Tema Customs Division reiterated customs’ commitment to integrity and accountability in their practices, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder collaboration for achieving collective objectives. The event recognized various individuals and teams whose contributions have notably furthered Ghana’s customs operations. Presentations addressed customs’ efficiency, security roles, and the evolution of Ghana Customs with a focus on specialized education in customs administration.
This article discusses recent initiatives by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division to improve border security and revenue collection. With rising challenges in the customs domain, the GRA Commissioner announced new measures during an important customs celebration. This showcases the agency’s commitment to aligning with international standards while promoting economic growth and trade facilitation in Ghana.
In conclusion, the GRA Commissioner has outlined decisive steps to bolster border security and improve revenue collection through modernization and stakeholder collaboration. The focus on efficient customs operations is vital for sustaining economic growth and safeguarding national interests. The need for enhanced communication about customs efforts was also emphasized, aiming for greater public and governmental engagement in future initiatives.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
