By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, July 29, GNA – Parliament has passed the Customs Bill, 2026, to establish a modern legal framework for customs administration in Ghana.
The legislation, passed after consideration of the Finance Committee’s report, seeks to consolidate existing customs laws, facilitate international trade, strengthen border security, and improve domestic revenue mobilisation.
The Bill was introduced in Parliament on Thursday, July 23, 2026, by Mr Kwame Governs Agbodza, Minister for Roads and Highways, on behalf of Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Minister for Finance, in accordance with Article 106(2) of the 1992 Constitution.
It was read for the first time on the same day and referred to the Finance Committee under Article 106(4) of the Constitution and Order 226(2) of the Standing Orders of Parliament.
According to the Committee’s report, the new law would streamline customs procedures and align Ghana’s customs regime with international best practices.
The report said the legislation would enhance efforts to combat smuggling, illicit trade and other customs-related offences, while improving compliance among importers and exporters.
“By modernising our customs administration, we are creating an environment that facilitates legitimate trade, strengthens border controls and increases our capacity to mobilise revenue efficiently,” the report stated.
The passage of the Bill comes as the Government prioritises domestic revenue mobilisation to support the 2026 Budget and Fiscal Policy.
The Committee said the consolidated legal framework would reduce procedural bottlenecks, improve transparency at ports and border posts, and provide customs authorities with stronger tools to address trade infractions.
The Customs Bill, 2026, now awaits presidential assent before it becomes law.
When operational, it is expected to replace fragmented customs regulations with a single comprehensive legal framework governing imports, exports, transit and customs enforcement.
GNA
Edited by Audrey Dekalu
Reporter: Elsie Appiah-Osei, GNA
Email: [email protected]