Europe
Lane is Available
Importing and Exporting from Ghana
Whether you’re in the thriving Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, looking to tap into the growing fintech market, or expanding your manufacturing reach, understanding the import and export landscape in Ghana is essential for success.
Tax
Up to 27%
Duties
Up to 20%
Lead Times
7-8 Weeks
Restrictions
Second Hand Goods
Best Carrier Option
Courier or Freight Forwarder
Non-Working Days
Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays
Prominent Languages
Akan and English
The Export Landscape of Ghana
Ghana’s position as a gateway to West Africa is driven by its vibrant economy and rapid growth across several industries. The country’s ICT sector, valued at approximately $1 billion, is expected to reach $5 billion by 2030, propelled by its growing digital infrastructure, software development, and financial technology industries.
Being a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Ghana is well-positioned to enhance intra-African trade and boost economic development. This free trade agreement between 54 African countries creates exciting opportunities for businesses looking to engage in the growing African market.
However, despite its booming sectors, exporting from Ghana isn’t without challenges. The country’s import regulations are known for being complex, and businesses must navigate various layers of customs procedures, tariffs, and documentation.
Population
34.80 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Gold
Capital City
Accra
Biggest Industry by Import
Mineral Fuels, Oils, and Distillation Products
How EOR and IOR Services in Ghana Can Help
With Ghana’s complex import-export landscape, relying on an experienced partner can make all the difference. Our EOR and IOR services in Ghana are specifically designed to help businesses navigate these intricate compliance processes with ease.
Expertise in Ghanaian Customs
With in-depth knowledge of Ghanaian customs regulations, we can accurately anticipate tax and duty expenses and reduce the risks of unexpected costs. Our expertise in documentation and compliance helps you stay on top of Ghana’s regulations, ensuring that all goods meet the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) requirements.
Streamlined Import and Export Process
We work closely with customs and other regulatory bodies to optimize the lead time for clearing goods, often surpassing industry averages. By leveraging our IOR services in Ghana, you’ll be able to streamline the entire export process, from obtaining the Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) to reducing delays at ports.
Mitigating Risks and Reducing Costs
Understanding Ghana’s complex tax structure is crucial to managing your budget effectively. Our services ensure that you’re well-prepared for any tariffs, and we provide proactive strategies to reduce the risks associated with fluctuating customs valuations and unpredictable clearance procedures.
The Challenges of Exporting from Ghana
Complicated Ghanaian Customs Procedures
The Ghanaian customs landscape is one of the more challenging aspects of exporting from Ghana. The Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) is a key requirement for importers, which often complicates the initial stages of the process. The pre- and post-import inspections can lead to significant delays, making the export process frustrating for businesses.
Furthermore, Ghana’s customs system has a long history of inefficiencies, from erratic application of import regulations to prolonged clearance times at ports. Importers must also navigate the opaque customs valuation system, which can lead to unpredictable costs due to Ghana’s inconsistent pricing references.
Tariffs and Import Duties
Ghana’s import tariff structure is based on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) common external tariff (CET), applying five distinct duty bands, ranging from zero to 35%. For example:
- Zero percent duty on essential social goods (e.g., medicine)
- Five percent duty on raw materials and capital goods
- 10 percent duty on intermediate goods
- 20 percent duty on consumer goods
- 35 percent duty on certain goods the government protects
Navigating these tariffs can be complicated, especially for businesses importing goods such as IT infrastructure, which may face higher duties and additional scrutiny.
Non-Tariff Barriers and Inspection Delays
While Ghana’s participation in ECOWAS and AfCFTA enhances trade opportunities, exporters still face hurdles like import bans on certain goods (such as pharmaceuticals) and lengthy inspection processes at ports. Ghana’s reliance on physical inspections rather than automated clearance increases lead times and creates bottlenecks at entry points.
This is compounded by port congestion and a lack of effective transportation systems like railways. As a result, businesses may face extended waiting periods for shipments, adding cost and uncertainty to the process.
Corruption and Administrative Bottlenecks
Corruption and inefficiency within customs and governmental processes in Ghana remain a significant barrier for exporters. Businesses often report delayed responses, inconsistent application of rules, and a lack of transparency throughout the compliance process.
Top Trade Partners of Ghana
Africa
South Africa
Asia
China
The Way Forward | Exporting from Ghana
As Ghana continues to grow its economy and improve its infrastructure, exporting from Ghana will become even more accessible. However, businesses must remain vigilant about navigating the complex landscape of tariffs, import duties, and regulatory requirements.
Working with a trusted partner like us ensures that you can take advantage of the growing opportunities in Ghana’s ICT, fintech, and digital sectors while minimizing the challenges that come with complex import/export regulations.
Whether you are looking to expand your business in Ghana or seeking to streamline your compliance processes, our specialized IOR services in Ghana are here to help.
Ready to Export from Ghana?
Navigate Ghana’s import-export landscape with confidence. With our expertise in customs compliance and IOR services in Ghana, you can rest assured that your shipments will be handled efficiently and with precision.