VEMAG petitions Transport Ministry to suspend DVLA’s digital number plate rollout

The Vehicle Embossment Association of Ghana (VEMAG) has petitioned the Ministry of Transport to suspend the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority’s (DVLA) planned rollout of digital vehicle number plates scheduled for January 2026.
In a statement issued on December 1, and signed by Secretary Victor Twum Koranteng, VEMAG accused the DVLA of failing to consult key local stakeholders and implementing a poorly coordinated transition that could threaten the livelihoods of over 3,000 workers in the embossment industry. The association said the rollout has been marked by “ill-preparedness” and risks causing confusion in the new year.
VEMAG, which has long served as the legally recognised embosser of vehicle plates in Ghana, argued that the move appears to favour foreign contractors at the expense of established local businesses. The group also criticised the DVLA CEO for allegedly prioritising international engagements over proper stakeholder consultation.
The association is calling for at least a six-month suspension of the digital plate introduction to allow for adequate planning. It has also requested that the Transport Minister compel the DVLA to hold a consultative meeting with VEMAG to ensure a smoother and collaborative transition.
VEMAG further challenged claims of widespread illegal embossers, insisting that fewer than 50 companies are officially recognised nationwide. While supportive of technological advancements, the association stressed that any modernisation must be gradual and inclusive to protect local jobs.