Customs explains red, green channels at Accra International Airport

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has clarified the functions of the red and green channels at Accra International Airport, emphasizing their significance for both revenue generation and national security. The clarification came in response to public inquiries regarding the absence of designated red and green channels for passengers arriving at the airport.

Mr Aaron Kanor, the Commissioner of the Customs Division, GRA, revealed that the airport indeed had these two channels, each serving unique roles in the processing of travelers and their luggage. The red channel is designated for travelers with goods that need declaration, particularly those in commercial quantities, whereas the green channel is for passengers who have nothing to declare.

Mr Kanor explained that travelers with goods to declare would navigate the red channel, where Customs officers would handle the goods, charge applicable duties, and taxes. He clarified that the green channel did not exempt passengers from Customs checks, noting that Customs scanners captured images of luggage to identify bags requiring further scrutiny, including those belonging to passengers who may have failed to declare taxable items.

According to Mr Kanor, the red and green channel system aligns with international Customs practices and the revised Kyoto Convention, with Customs administrations worldwide employing similar systems. The revenue collected through these channels plays a crucial role in funding public infrastructure such as roads and hospitals, underscoring the importance of compliance.

Mr Kanor also highlighted that Customs checks extend beyond revenue collection, serving essential functions in public safety, national security, and safeguarding against prohibited items like firearms. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is actively working towards procuring handheld scanners by the end of the year to expedite and enhance the efficiency of inspections at the airport.

Additionally, the GRA is undergoing digital transformation, with plans to deploy Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems to bolster passenger profiling and Customs operations. Mr Kanor advised travelers against carrying excessive quantities of items, especially unauthorized mobile phones belonging to others, as amounts beyond personal allowances could be classified as commercial imports and subject to applicable duties and taxes.

Madam Grace Assumin, the Chief Revenue Officer for Preventive at Accra International Airport, elaborated that Customs employs scanners covering the four luggage belts in Terminal Three to aid officers in identifying prohibited, restricted, and taxable items. She explained that when a bag is flagged by the scanning system, it is directed to the arrival hall for officers to further examine the contents.

Upon clearing immigration, passengers' luggage undergoes scanning before being transported to the arrival hall and carousel via conveyor belts.