Deputy Finance Minister Orders Customs to Plug Revenue Leakage
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The Deputy Minister of Finance, Mr. Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has directed the Ghana Customs Service to intensify efforts to eliminate corruption and revenue leakages, warning that every cedi lost through fraud and unethical practices directly weakens Ghana’s national development agenda.
Speaking at the 2026 International Customs Day celebration in Tema, Mr. Ampem said government would no longer tolerate practices within Customs operations that undermine revenue mobilisation, economic stability and public trust.
The event, organised in line with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) calendar, was held under the global theme: “Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment.” According to the Deputy Minister, the theme reflects the expanding responsibilities of Customs administrations in a rapidly evolving global trade and security environment.
Mr. Ampem stressed that corruption within Customs has far-reaching consequences beyond immediate revenue losses, as it erodes the government’s capacity to fund essential public services and infrastructure.
“We must take decisive steps to eradicate all forms of corruption and fraud. Every cedi lost is a missed opportunity for national development,” he said, adding that revenue leakages ultimately translate into unbuilt schools, poor road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities and limited access to clean water and sanitation.
He described revenue mobilisation as the backbone of government’s ability to deliver on its social and economic obligations, particularly at a time when fiscal discipline and domestic resource mobilisation are central to Ghana’s economic recovery efforts.
Beyond its revenue mandate, Mr. Ampem highlighted the strategic role of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in protecting Ghana from illicit trade and transnational crime. He noted that Customs officers are on the frontline in preventing the entry of narcotics, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit medicines, and substandard or dangerous goods that pose risks to public health and national security.
“Customs does not only collect revenue; it protects society. This makes integrity, professionalism and vigilance non-negotiable,” he emphasised.
Reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening Customs operations, the Deputy Finance Minister said the Ministry of Finance would accelerate policy reforms aimed at sealing operational loopholes, improving efficiency and enhancing accountability within the Customs system.
He outlined plans to deepen digitalisation of Customs processes, invest in modern inspection and surveillance technologies, and strengthen institutional capacity to reduce human discretion, which often creates opportunities for corruption.
“We are determined to empower Customs to safeguard both our economy and our national security. Digital reforms, infrastructure investment and continuous capacity building will remain central to this agenda,” Mr. Ampem assured.
He added that government’s broader objective is to build a Customs administration that is efficient, professional and responsive to the needs of the trading community, while maintaining strict enforcement of the law.
In an era of expanding global trade and increasingly complex security challenges, the Deputy Minister urged Customs officers to recommit themselves to transparency, accountability and patriotism, stressing that government maintains a zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
“Your vigilance at our ports, borders and entry points is critical to securing Ghana’s economic future. Protecting national revenue is protecting the future of this country,” he concluded.
