Revenue Growth Targeted as GRA Joins Forces with SSNIT, Registrar of Companies

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is stepping up its efforts to enhance tax compliance and broaden the country’s revenue base by partnering with major national institutions, including the Registrar of Companies and the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT). The move is part of a broader strategy to increase domestic revenue through improved data sharing and digital integration.

Speaking during a recent X-Space discussion hosted by IMANI Ghana under the theme “Resetting Ghana’s Revenue Mobilization”, Acting Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Sarpong, outlined the Authority’s plan to use technology and institutional cooperation to identify and bring more businesses into the tax fold.

“Our focus is on widening the tax net using digital tools,” Sarpong noted. “As more businesses migrate to online platforms, we must adapt by deploying technology to track and engage them more effectively.”

One of the GRA’s key initiatives involves building direct digital links with institutions that house critical business data. Sarpong confirmed that discussions have begun with the Registrar of Companies to establish an Application Programming Interface (API) that will allow the GRA to access up-to-date information on registered businesses and individuals operating commercially. This integration will enable real-time cross-checks and ensure that entities registered to do business are also paying their taxes.

The GRA is taking a similar approach with SSNIT, recognizing that many businesses comply with pension contributions while neglecting tax obligations. “People tend to prioritize their social security because it’s tied to their future. However, many of these same individuals or companies do not pay taxes. By aligning with SSNIT, we can identify and track these gaps,” he explained.

Beyond working with formal institutions, the GRA is also intensifying its outreach to the informal sector. Sarpong stated that the Authority intends to partner with various trade and business associations to improve tax awareness and encourage compliance among small-scale and self-employed workers. He emphasized that collaboration, not just enforcement, is crucial to achieving sustainable results.

“This isn’t only about enforcement,” Sarpong said. “We aim to build trust and understanding with informal sector actors by helping them see the value of paying taxes and how it contributes to national development.”

Ghana has long struggled with a low tax-to-GDP ratio, largely due to widespread informality, tax evasion, and administrative inefficiencies. The GRA’s multi-pronged strategy—focusing on technological innovation, inter-agency cooperation, and community engagement—is designed to address these challenges.

With mounting economic pressures and growing demand for improved public services, the government is relying more heavily on domestic revenue to fund its operations. The GRA’s initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in reducing reliance on external borrowing and improving fiscal sustainability.

As these efforts unfold, the Authority hopes to create a more inclusive and transparent tax system that not only captures a broader base but also fosters a culture of compliance and civic responsibility across Ghana.