Ato Forson Vows to Abolish Betting Tax and E-Levy in First Budget

In a bold statement made before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 13, Finance Minister-designate, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, assured Ghanaians that his first budget would focus on scrapping two controversial taxes: the betting tax and the e-levy.

Dr. Forson, who is set to take over as the country’s Finance Minister, argued that the betting tax has failed to meet its intended goals and has instead placed an undue burden on the sector.

He expressed his firm commitment to abolishing the tax once he assumes office, emphasizing that the tax has not generated the expected revenue for the government and has only added unnecessary financial strain on the betting industry.

“I insist that the betting tax must be abolished, and as Finance Minister, I will abolish it in my first budget because it has failed,” Dr. Forson declared with conviction.

His stance on the matter highlights his intention to create a more efficient and supportive tax framework that will benefit both the economy and businesses within the country.

Alongside the betting tax, Dr. Forson reiterated his long-standing opposition to the controversial e-levy.

The e-levy, which was introduced to tax electronic transactions in Ghana, has faced significant public backlash.

Dr. Forson made it clear that his position on the levy remains unchanged and that he believes the tax is not well-suited for the current economic environment.

“My position on the e-levy is well known. I have written articles about it, and my position has not changed,” he stated.

He further expressed confusion over the classification of the levy, referring to it as neither a direct nor an indirect tax. “I don’t know how to classify it,” he added, signaling his doubts about the efficacy and practicality of the levy in Ghana’s fiscal system.

Dr. Forson also emphasized that his focus would be on restructuring the country’s tax system to make it more sustainable, equitable, and conducive to economic growth.

He vowed to work towards relieving the public of unnecessary financial burdens while ensuring that taxes contribute to the long-term development of the nation.