Members of the Cross-Border Women Traders Association in Aflao have petitioned the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) over alleged extortion and the proliferation of checkpoints along the import route into Ghana.
The concerns were raised during a meeting with the Commissioner of Customs as part of his working visit to Aflao. The traders outlined challenges they say continue to affect their businesses and increase the cost of cross-border trade.
The association, made up largely of small and medium-scale traders operating between Ghana and Togo, complained about what they described as numerous checkpoints operated by different agencies, as well as alleged demands for unofficial payments.
Responding to the concerns, the Customs Commissioner clarified that there are officially only four Customs checkpoints on the import route into Ghana and urged traders to comply with all legitimate customs requirements.
He also reassured the traders that Customs has no interest in exploiting importers and exporters, stressing that its role is to facilitate trade while ensuring the correct duties and taxes are paid.
The Commissioner further clarified that exports from Ghana to Togo do not attract customs duties.
Meanwhile, Aflao Sector Commander of Customs, Emmanuel Reginald Duh, pledged to investigate reports of unlawful extortion and unauthorised collections at border points.
He assured the traders that Customs remains committed to creating a conducive environment for legitimate business activities and supporting the growth of cross-border trade.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the Customs Division to strengthen collaboration with taxpayer groups and address concerns affecting trade operations at the country’s borders.
