Ghana's telecommunications sector contributed approximately GH¢15 billion in taxes, levies, regulatory fees, and related payments to the national purse in 2025. This information was provided by Mr. Francis Timore Boi, a tax analyst and member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Ghana. The contribution represents about 6.8% of Ghana's total domestic revenue of GH¢223 billion collected during the period.
The telecom sector's contribution makes it one of the country's most significant contributors to government revenue. Mr. Boi made these remarks at a forum on "Digital Infrastructure and Nation Building: Assessing Tax Contributions, Fiscal Impact, and the Role of Policy Incentives in Ghana's Telecom Growth Story". The forum was organised by Deloitte Ghana and the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications in Accra.
The telecommunications sector's role extends far beyond voice and internet services, supporting communication, financial inclusion, business operations, and access to digital technologies. Mr. Boi noted that telecommunications have become an essential service, and digital connectivity is now a necessity rather than a luxury. He stressed that the sector affects almost every aspect of livelihood.
Breaking down the GH¢15 billion contribution, Mr. Boi said corporate income taxes paid directly by telecom operators amounted to about GH¢4.18 billion, representing the largest single component of the sector's tax payments. Telecom companies also made substantial contributions through statutory levies and regulatory payments.
Telecom operators made significant contributions through various channels, including VAT-related funds and levies (GH¢1.67 billion), withholding taxes collected within their supply chain (GH¢1.48 billion), Communication Service Tax (GH¢1 billion), and import duties on telecommunications equipment (about GH¢600 million). Before its removal in May 2025, the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) generated approximately GH¢840 million.
The sector's tax performance has improved significantly over recent years, rising from about GH¢6 billion in 2022 to GH¢15 billion in 2025. Mr. Boi attributed this increase to growing adoption of digital services, mobile money usage, and continued investments in network infrastructure. In 2025, telecom operators invested more than GH¢5 billion in network expansion and modernisation.
Despite these achievements, Mr. Boi called for a balanced tax regime that would enable the industry to continue investing in critical digital infrastructure while contributing to government revenue. He noted that telecom operators face rising operational costs, particularly energy expenses, and significant investments are required for the transition to next-generation technologies.
Key points
- The telecom sector contributed GH¢15 billion to Ghana's national revenue in 2025.
- The sector's contribution represents 6.8% of Ghana's total domestic revenue.
- The industry invested over GH¢5 billion in network expansion and modernisation in 2025.
