The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has disclosed that it is recovering an average of $3 million daily following the deployment of its Publican Artificial Intelligence (AI) customs valuation system at the country’s ports.
Commissioner-General, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, in an interview on Radio Gold’s morning conversation, revealed that the introduction of the AI tool forms part of efforts to curb revenue leakages and minimise human interference in customs processes.
He explained that a five-year review of historical trade data exposed significant discrepancies in Ghana’s international trade values, prompting the need for a more robust and transparent system.
He noted that while the majority of importers comply with regulations, about 25 percent of declarations are flagged by the system for under-declaration or misclassification.
The Publican AI system, which was piloted and officially deployed on March 11, 2026, has since been generating substantial revenue gains. According to Mr Sarpong, the daily recovery of $3 million translates into nearly GH¢1 billion monthly.
The rollout of the AI system has, however, been met with concerns from some trade groups, including the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations, the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana, and CropLife Ghana, who have raised issues about rising port costs.
In response, Mr Sarpong firmly denied claims that the GRA has introduced new taxes, fees, or charges at the ports. He stressed that the AI system is strictly designed to validate import declarations and ensure that the correct duties are paid based on accurate valuations.
To address operational concerns, the GRA has established a joint technical committee to engage stakeholders and resolve any irregularities associated with the system.
Looking ahead, the Authority plans to continue implementing the AI system for general goods throughout April, with an expansion to include vehicle imports scheduled for May.
Story By: Rejoice Quaye(Intern, UCC and Errah Razak Salifu, UNIMAC)
