I’ve no doubt Mahama will sign amended bills on E-Levy, others into law without delay – Finance Minister

The Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, is optimistic that President John Mahama will assent to the recently passed bill abolishing the E-Levy, Emission Levy, and Betting Tax with the urgency they deserve.

The scrapping of the taxes by Parliament, is expected to offer financial relief to businesses, individuals, and industry players who have been affected by these levies.

Following the passage of the bill, Dr Ato Forson took to social media to express his optimism about the President’s approval.

“Parliament has just passed the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which abolishes the ‘Betting Tax’ and other levies. I have no doubt that H.E. President John Dramani Mahama will be more than willing to sign it into law without delay,” he posted on March 26.

The Emission Levy, introduced in 2024 to promote environmental sustainability, was met with stiff opposition from vehicle owners and businesses who contended that it engendered significant financial burden.

Similarly, the 10% Betting Tax, which sought to generate revenue from the growing gambling industry, was widely criticised for discouraging participation and reducing revenue for betting operators.

The repeal of these levies is expected to ease tax obligations for various sectors while potentially reshaping income tax structures and corporate taxation.

Meanwhile,  the Finance Minister said the government will discontinue the tax exemption policy under the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative due to widespread abuse.

He made this declaration while addressing Parliament, citing evidence of serious misuse of the policy.

“As Finance Minister, I’m not going to continue with the 1D1F tax exemption because the evidence before this House suggests it has been abused badly,” Mr Forson stated.

He emphasised that while the initiative aimed to support industrialisation and economic growth, the tax exemptions had been exploited in ways that undermined its original intent.

Mr Forson assured Parliament that the government remains committed to promoting local industries but would seek alternative measures to ensure accountability and fairness.

“We will support genuine businesses that contribute to our economy, but we must put an end to policies that create loopholes for exploitation,” he added.

The post I’ve no doubt Mahama will sign amended bills on E-Levy, others into law without delay – Finance Minister first appeared on 3News.

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