No more blanket tax waiver exemptions, President Mahama declares

President John Dramani Mahama has announced an end to blanket tax waiver exemptions, declaring that such sweeping concessions will no longer be permitted under his administration.

The President made the announcement on Friday, 15 May 2026, signaling a major shift in fiscal policy aimed at tightening revenue management and closing loopholes that have historically cost the state billions in lost revenue.

Speaking on the matter, President Mahama emphasised that while targeted tax exemptions may still be considered on a case-by-case basis, the era of automatic, broad-based waivers is over. The move is expected to boost domestic revenue mobilisation and create a more level playing field for businesses.

“We cannot continue to grant blanket exemptions without clear justification or measurable impact on the economy,” the President stated. His comments have been widely interpreted as part of a broader effort to enhance fiscal discipline and reduce Ghana’s reliance on borrowing.

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the business community, with some industry players welcoming the clarity while others express concern about potential cost increases. Government officials are expected to release further details on the new waiver guidelines in the coming weeks.