The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has given the government a 48-hour deadline to remove taxes on petroleum products or face pressure for an increase in transport fares nationwide. The warning was issued by Deputy PRO Samuel Amoah, who cited a sharp rise in fuel prices and mounting operational costs for transport operators.
The ultimatum follows new ex-pump price floors announced by the National Petroleum Authority, setting petrol at GHS 13.30 and diesel at GHS 17.10 per litre for the April 1–15 pricing window, significant increases from the previous rates.
The surge in fuel prices has been linked to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly after the U.S. military operation dubbed Operation Epic Fury, which disrupted global oil supply and pushed crude prices above $100 per barrel.
Beyond fuel, GPRTU highlighted rising costs in spare parts, insurance premiums, and vehicle licensing fees from the DVLA, all of which are straining operators. The union says it may soon propose new fare adjustments to the Ministry of Transport if government intervention does not materialize.
GPRTU maintains that while global factors may be beyond government control, immediate relief through tax cuts could prevent a nationwide fare hike.