Travelers with multiple new devices returning to Ghana to pay additional charges – Customs Commissioner

Travelers arriving in Ghana with multiple new electronic devices, such as mobile phones and other gadgets, may face additional charges for commercial duties at the airport. Aaron Kanor, Commissioner of Customs at the Ghana Revenue Authority, explained this during a briefing with journalists after a visit to the airport. He stated that possessing more than two mobile devices could be considered commercial use.

The Commissioner also announced plans to fully automate passenger profiling at Ghana's airports during arrivals, part of the country's customs transformation efforts to reduce delays caused by physical checks. This initiative aligns with international customs practices, which require such items to be declared by owners. Customs Commissioner Kanor highlighted a cultural aspect in Ghana, where individuals often receive several phones as gifts upon returning home.

He urged travelers not to collect phones intended for others when arriving, as exceeding two devices would result in commercial charges. This is particularly relevant for expensive brands like iPhone and Samsung. The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority is actively working to automate passenger profiling at the country's airports during arrivals, aiming to streamline the customs process and improve efficiency.