Ghana’s main commercial transport union has given the government a 48-hour deadline to reduce taxes on petroleum products, warning that failure to act could trigger a nationwide increase in fares.

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) said the ultimatum follows a sharp rise in fuel prices that is straining operators already grappling with higher operating costs. Samuel Amoah, the union’s deputy public relations officer, said in a broadcast interview that members would have little choice but to push for fare adjustments if relief is not provided.

“We’ve given the government two days to respond,” Mr. Amoah said. “If nothing changes, we will be compelled to organize and request an increase in transport fares.”

Fuel prices surged at the start of April after the National Petroleum Authority set new minimum ex-pump prices for the period from April 1 to April 15. Petrol rose to 13.30 cedis per liter from 11.57 cedis, while diesel climbed to 17.10 cedis from 14.35 cedis in the previous pricing window.

The increase reflects broader global pressures. Oil markets have been jolted by escalating tensions in the Middle East, pushing crude prices above $100 a barrel. Benchmark prices have climbed more than 26% in recent weeks, rising from about $86 to over $109 per barrel. A modest depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the U.S. dollar has added further upward pressure on domestic fuel costs.

Transport operators say the burden extends beyond fuel. Prices for spare parts have increased, insurance premiums have climbed, and vehicle licensing costs have risen. According to the union, insurance for some commercial buses has increased by more than 25%, while penalties for delayed renewals have more than doubled.

The GPRTU said it plans to convene internally before submitting any proposed fare adjustments to the Ministry of Transport for approval. Still, union officials signaled that the final outcome hinges on whether the government moves to ease tax pressures.

While authorities have indicated that global price movements are largely beyond their control, transport operators argue that domestic policy decisions could mitigate the impact. Without intervention, they say, fare increases may be unavoidable.

Source:TheDotNews