VEMAG Petitions Transport Ministry to Halt DVLA’s Digital Number Plate Rollout
The Vehicle Embossment Association of Ghana (VEMAG) has petitioned the Ministry of Transport to suspend the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority’s (DVLA) planned rollout of digital vehicle number plates, scheduled for January 2026.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Victor Twum Koranteng, the association accused the DVLA of sidelining key local stakeholders and pursuing a poorly coordinated program that threatens the livelihoods of more than 3,000 workers in the embossment industry.
VEMAG highlighted its long-standing role as the legally recognised producer of vehicle plates in Ghana, noting that it has historically pre-financed plate production for the DVLA and consistently fulfilled its tax obligations. The association argued that the digitalisation agenda appears to favour foreign contractors at the expense of established Ghanaian businesses.
It also criticised the DVLA Chief Executive for allegedly embarking on international trips and engaging foreign firms without conducting adequate consultations with local players.
VEMAG cited practices in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Nigeria. It further referenced Ghana’s Road Traffic Act, which mandates collaboration between the DVLA and private operators.
The association is requesting a six-month suspension of the digital plate initiative to allow for proper planning, training, and broad stakeholder engagement. It warned that a rushed rollout could create nationwide confusion.
VEMAG additionally called on the Ministry of Transport to probe the DVLA CEO’s claims about illegal operators in the sector, stressing that authorised embossment firms number fewer than 50 across the country.
VEMAG emphasised that any transition must be gradual, inclusive, and designed to protect jobs while ensuring a smooth national implementation.
