GRA Customs warns travelers over carrying multiple mobile phones into Ghana

Travelers intending to enter Ghana with multiple new mobile phones and other electronics may face commercial duty assessments, warns the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division. Commissioner Aaron Kanor stated that passengers carrying more than two phones could be treated as commercial imports, especially if the devices are recent and numerous.

During a recent airport tour briefing, Kanor emphasized that goods exceeding personal allowances should be declared. Bringing phones for relatives and friends might lead to the items being classified as commercial, potentially resulting in duties. Ghanaian customs practices, where gifts such as phones are given to family and friends, can contribute to this classification.

Kanor cautioned against accepting large quantities of electronic devices from others upon return, particularly expensive brands like iPhones and Samsung. He highlighted that these high-value items are crucial for revenue mobilization for customs. The GRA is also advancing towards automated passenger profiling at airports to modernize operations, reduce inspection delays, and enhance the identification of potentially high-value goods requiring further scrutiny.