ICUMS Records Improved Performance as Gov’t Revenue Hits $3.18bn end-September 2025
The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) says data available to the association points to improved performance of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), reflected in higher government revenue mobilisation from customs operations.
According to the Executive Director of the IEAG, Mr Samson Awingobit, customs revenue rose to US$3.18 billion as at September 2025, up from US$3.11 billion recorded in 2024.
“Compared to 2024, I can state here and now that customs revenue has increased to US$3,179,125,238.11 as at September 2025, up from US$3,108,226,482.40 in 2024. This reflects sustained revenue flows from trade facilitation activities,” Mr Awingobit said.
He made the remarks at a press briefing on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
ICUMS, launched in June 2020, is Ghana’s official electronic customs platform designed to serve as a single window for trade-related transactions. The system is used by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), importers, exporters and freight forwarders to streamline border clearance processes and enhance revenue collection.
Tax reforms and port competitiveness
Mr Awingobit commended government for recent tax policy measures aimed at supporting business competitiveness, particularly the removal of the one per cent COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy and the adjustment of the effective VAT rate from about 21.9 per cent to 20 per cent under the 2026 tax reform framework.
“These changes are expected to ease financial burdens on traders and restore confidence in Ghana’s port competitiveness,” he noted.
Currency stability and inflation easing
On the macroeconomic environment, the IEAG Executive Director said the Ghanaian cedi has shown relative stability and appreciation against the US dollar in recent months, following a period of sharp depreciation earlier in the year.
As of mid-December 2025, the Bank of Ghana’s interbank exchange rate stood at approximately GH₵11.48 to the US dollar, compared with levels above GH₵15 per dollar recorded earlier in 2025.
According to Mr Awingobit, the improved exchange rate dynamics have reduced foreign exchange costs for importers, particularly businesses dependent on the US dollar for freight, port charges and international trade transactions.
He also pointed to a sharp moderation in inflation, with headline inflation easing to between 6.5 per cent and 8.0 per cent by November 2025, alongside reductions in policy and reference interest rates by the Bank of Ghana.
“Declining inflation, improved exchange rate stability and lower borrowing costs together contribute to a more predictable business environment for traders and investors,” he said.
Calls for sustained policy support
While expressing confidence in the current policy direction, Mr Awingobit said further reforms are needed to consolidate recent gains.
“On balance, these economic developments alongside reforms impacting trade, revenue mobilisation and financial stability justify the confidence we hold in the direction of Ghana’s policy framework for trade and business,” he stated.
He added that the improving business environment under the current administration has “breathed new life into commerce in its first year”.
However, the IEAG called for continued policy support in three key areas: improved foreign exchange availability for importers and exporters, targeted support mechanisms to cushion local businesses against external shocks, and sustained reforms to make Ghana’s port operations more efficient and competitive within the West African sub-region.
