GRA directs travellers to declare goods beyond personal effects at ports

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has instructed travelers to declare goods exceeding personal effects at the country's ports of entry. This guidance follows discussions about the Customs handling of mobile phones and other items brought into Ghana. The GRA clarified that carrying more than two mobile phones does not automatically trigger Customs duty.

Instead, Customs officers evaluate each case based on the items' purpose, quantity, condition, and whether they are gifts or for commercial use. The number of mobile phones mentioned was to show scenarios where further inquiries might be necessary. Although a traveler can bring multiple phones for personal reasons, a significant number of new or similar items, especially for others, may be subject to duty assessment.

Customs law differentiates between personal belongings and goods intended for sale or supply. Legal imports will face the required duties and taxes. The GRA advises travelers to use the green channel if their items are genuinely for personal use and the red channel if they exceed personal effects, requiring declaration and duty payment.

Those uncertain about their goods' status should declare them and seek guidance from Customs officers. The goal is to ensure fair treatment of travelers while enforcing Customs laws, aligning with Ghana's framework and exemptions under the Exemptions Act, 2022.