TAGG Calls for Full Disclosure of GRA–TRUEDARE Contract Details; Files RTI Application
The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG), in collaboration with members of the trading and importing community, has raised concerns over contractual arrangements between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and TRUEDARE Investment Limited, calling for greater transparency, accountability and stakeholder engagement.
In a statement jointly signed by TAGG President, David Kwadwo Amoateng, Vice President, Samuel Asare Addo, Treasurer, Irene Victoria Odoow, and General Secretary, Nana Poku, the group criticised the GRA for seeking parliamentary approval for the contracts without prior consultation with key stakeholders, particularly traders and importers who are directly impacted by the agreement.
According to TAGG, the absence of meaningful engagement undermines principles of transparency, inclusiveness and good faith in public procurement and policy implementation.
The group disclosed that following public concerns, an appeal was submitted to the Presidency, which reportedly led to a directive for the GRA to review the contract to ensure transparency and accountability. However, TAGG noted that the Authority has not formally communicated the outcome of any such review to stakeholders.
Instead, the group said the GRA organised a forum that largely focused on the economic benefits and valuation accuracy of customs Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, without adequately addressing broader concerns relating to fairness, due process and stakeholder inclusion.
TAGG also questioned the qualifications and capacity of TRUEDARE Investment Limited, noting that the company is primarily known as a trading entity with no established track record in managing AI-driven customs systems for valuation and classification. According to the group, this has fuelled skepticism among traders and importers regarding the company’s technical competence and experience.
The group further expressed concern that capable and experienced local technology firms may have been sidelined in the contracting process, raising questions around value-for-money, fairness and competence.
TAGG warned that the unresolved issues have contributed to growing dissatisfaction and unrest within the trading community.
In a bid to promote transparency, the group announced that it has submitted a formal application to the Right to Information (RTI) Commission, seeking full disclosure of the contract details to allow for an independent assessment of whether the agreement aligns with its stated scope of work and complies with principles of fair competition.
TAGG stressed that the move was taken in good faith to protect the legitimate interests of traders and importers, promote transparency, and ensure a stable and peaceful business environment, while reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement with government institutions in the national interest.
