Ghana customs revenue rises following digital and AI implementation

Customs revenue at Ghana’s Tema Port has seen a significant increase following the implementation of digital and artificial intelligence systems. According to the World Bank, the introduction of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) by Ghana Link Network Services Ltd more than doubled monthly collections. Before the rollout, monthly revenue ranged between GH¢500 million and GH¢600 million, but rose to between GH¢1.2 billion and GH¢1.4 billion after the system became operational in April 2020.

Ghana Revenue Authority Commissioner General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong reported that modernization efforts, specifically the use of artificial intelligence to support the valuation and classification of goods, have boosted monthly revenue from approximately $350 million to $450 million. Sarpong noted that these gains resulted from the fair and accurate application of rules through administrative reform rather than new taxes or higher rates. The World Bank attributed the improved compliance and reduced revenue leakage to the digital transformation of the country’s principal seaport.