The government of Ghana has implemented a significant ban on the land transit of cooking oil, mandating that all shipments be routed through the nation’s seaports. This decision, announced by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, comes in response to recent incidents where eighteen trucks, originally declared for transit to Niger, were intercepted under suspicions of a larger diversion scheme.
According to the new regulations, any cooking oil entering Ghana meant for onward transport to landlocked countries will no longer be allowed to utilize land border crossings. Instead, these shipments must exclusively pass through the country’s seaports, where enhanced tracking systems, electronic monitoring, scanning technology, and stringent customs protocols are already in place.
Officials have stated that this measure aims to close existing loopholes in the transit framework that have resulted in significant revenue losses for the state. Recent investigations into the intercepted trucks revealed serious discrepancies in declared values, tariff classifications, and weights. This revised the potential revenue shortfall from an estimated GH¢2.6 million to a staggering GH¢85 million.
In addition to the ban, the Minister has directed the Ghana Revenue Authority to heighten its oversight and compliance enforcement for all transactions originating from land collection points. This initiative will involve intensified monitoring of cargo, stricter escort protocols, and increased supervisory measures.
Furthermore, disciplinary actions are set to be initiated against Customs officers implicated in similar violations. The scope of criminal investigations will also extend to include importers and clearing agents when evidence warrants legal action.
These new regulations are designed not only to protect government revenue but also to shield local edible oil producers from unfair competition posed by diverted goods. Dr. Ato Forson, recognized as Africa’s Most Outstanding Finance Minister of 2025, emphasized the government’s commitment to enforcing the law rigorously, including the confiscation and auctioning of impounded goods where necessary. This initiative aims to ensure the integrity of Ghana’s customs operations and support national development.
