The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced the complete abolition of the COVID-19 levy, a move he says will provide significant financial relief to individuals and businesses across the country.

Presenting the 2026 Budget Statement to Parliament on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Dr. Forson revealed that removing the levy will inject GH₵3.7 billion back into the economy next year.

“Mr. Speaker, by abolishing the COVID-19 levy, Government is putting GH₵3.7 billion back into the pockets of individuals and businesses in 2026 alone,” he said.

According to the Finance Minister, the repeal is expected to:


  • Increase household disposable income,


  • Reduce operational costs for businesses,


  • Support job retention, and


  • Improve liquidity in the market.

The measure forms part of a broader VAT reform programme aimed at simplifying the tax regime and reducing the tax burden on consumers and the private sector. Overall, the reforms are projected to return GH₵5.7 billion to Ghanaians.

“Altogether, the VAT reforms are expected to give back GH₵5.7 billion to businesses and households,” Dr. Forson added.

The announcement has been widely welcomed as a major relief for taxpayers still recovering from the economic effects of the pandemic and high inflation in recent years.