# Ghana tourism economic and policy challenges

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ghana-tourism-economic-and-policy-challenges
> Updated: 2026-09-10T17:38:10.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 3.

Ghana’s tourism sector continues to face economic and policy challenges, characterized by a disconnect between visitor volume and revenue. While international arrivals rose from 1.29 million in 2024 to 1.31 million in 2025, total tourism receipts declined from approximately $4.82 billion to $4.34 billion due to a drop in average visitor spending.

Industry stakeholders are increasingly warning that rising costs are undermining Ghana’s regional competitiveness. The Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) and the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) have both called for a reduction in the US$260 emergency e-Visa fee. GHATOF President Seth Ocran warned that the current fee is “considerably higher than those in neighboring countries,” potentially pricing Ghana out of the market.

In addition to visa concerns, domestic travel costs have surged. Stakeholders noted that domestic airfares have risen significantly, with return tickets between Accra and Kumasi reaching as high as GH¢5,000. While an Airport Infrastructure Development Charge of GH¢100 was introduced in April, airlines attribute high fares to operational expenses including fuel, maintenance, leasing, and insurance, compounded by limited competition on major domestic routes.

Policy implementation remains a point of contention, particularly regarding the ‘Black Star Experience’ initiative launched in May 2025. Local creators have criticized the program for failing to meet its initial promises to promote Ghana’s music, film, and fashion sectors.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: Ghana tourism stakeholders warn of rising travel and visa costs

Stakeholders in Ghana are warning that rising domestic airfares and a $260 e-Visa fee could undermine the country's tourism and travel sectors.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ghana-tourism-stakeholders-warn-of-rising-travel-and-visa-costs

### 2026-08-25: Ghana tourism operators urge reduction of US$260 emergency visa fee

The Tour Operators Union of Ghana is urging the government to lower the US$260 emergency visa fee to maintain tourism competitiveness and prevent the country from being perceived as an expensive destination.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ghana-tourism-operators-urge-reduction-of-us260-emergency-visa-fee

### 2026-08-17: Ghana tourism revenue declines despite rise in visitor arrivals

Ghana saw an increase in international tourism arrivals in 2025, but total tourism receipts and average visitor spending declined significantly.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ghana-tourism-revenue-declines-despite-rise-in-visitor-arrivals

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Cite as: Ghana tourism economic and policy challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ghana-tourism-economic-and-policy-challenges