Mobile Money Operators Threaten Strike Over Alleged Double Taxation in Ghana

In a recent development, mobile money operators in Ghana have issued a stern warning of a potential strike in response to what they perceive as double taxation by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). The operators argue that the imposition of the E-levy on agent SIM cards by the GRA amounts to double taxation, as they are already subject to a 10% income tax on all transactions.

The Mobile Money Advocacy Group (MOMAG), representing the collective voice of mobile money agents, expressed deep concern over the financial implications of the double taxation. According to a statement released by MOMAG's National Secretary, Kingsley J. Amoako-Atta, the additional levy poses a significant threat to the financial sustainability of their businesses.

Efforts to address these concerns through engagement with the GRA have reportedly yielded no tangible solutions, leaving mobile money operators in a precarious position. MOMAG emphasized the urgency of resolving the issue, highlighting the risk of losing capital and jeopardizing livelihoods if the situation persists.

Furthermore, MOMAG emphasized that the imposition of the E-levy on agent SIM cards, coupled with a 1% levy on all Push and Pull transactions from banks, creates an unsustainable financial burden for mobile money agents across the country.

In light of these grievances, mobile money operators have issued a stark ultimatum, indicating that if their concerns are not adequately addressed, they will be left with no choice but to shut down their operations and organize demonstrations to safeguard their capital and livelihoods.

The tension surrounding the issue underscores the growing importance of mobile money services in Ghana's financial landscape and the challenges faced by operators amid regulatory changes. As stakeholders await further developments, the potential strike looms as a significant disruption to the mobile money ecosystem in the country.