More than two phones may attract customs duties at Ghana’s airports – GRA

By: Hubeyidatu Mumuni 

Travellers arriving in Ghana with more than two mobile phones may be required to pay customs duties and taxes, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has cautioned.

Commissioner of Customs, Aaron Kanor, said passengers carrying several mobile phones, particularly new devices in large quantities, risk having the items classified as commercial imports rather than personal effects.

He explained that Customs officers assess the quantity and nature of goods brought into the country to determine whether they are intended for personal use or commercial purposes.

Speaking to journalists after a tour of the Accra International Airport on Wednesday, September 2, Mr Kanor advised travellers to be cautious about accepting multiple mobile phones from friends and relatives to transport into Ghana.

According to him, while it is common for travellers to return with phones given to them by family and friends, carrying several devices could trigger additional tax obligations.

“In Ghana, because of our culture, when one is travelling, Ama gives you one phone, Kofi gives you another, and all the day borns they all give you phones. When you carry all those seven phones, and you arrive, it will amount to what? Commercial,” he said.

Mr Kanor said a traveller could reasonably carry one phone for personal use and possibly another for a spouse, but additional devices could attract customs duties if they exceed what Customs considers personal effects.

He also highlighted high-value brands such as iPhones and Samsung devices as potential sources of revenue for the Customs Division.

“If you look at iPhone, Samsung, they are very expensive. That is where we can get our revenue,” he added.

The Commissioner urged travellers to properly declare goods that exceed what can reasonably be classified as personal effects to avoid complications and unexpected tax liabilities at the airport.