GRA to demystify VAT rules for Ghanaian businesses on Joy FM

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is stepping up its public education drive with a dedicated radio discussion aimed at clarifying Value Added Tax (VAT) requirements for Ghanaian businesses and taxpayers. Dr Dominic Naab, the Acting Deputy Commissioner in charge of Strategy and Policy and Head of VAT Administration, will appear on the GRA Connect Radio Show on Joy 99.7 FM on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, at 8:00 am to address common questions and misconceptions around VAT compliance.

The one-hour segment comes at a time when many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) continue to struggle with understanding their tax obligations under Ghana's VAT system. Dr Naab's appearance will provide an opportunity for business owners, traders and individual taxpayers to hear directly from a senior GRA official about how the tax works, what compliance means in practice, and how to avoid penalties for non-compliance.

What taxpayers can expect to learn

The discussion will focus on several critical areas that typically confuse Ghanaian businesses. These include the mechanics of VAT registration, how to calculate VAT on goods and services, the process for claiming VAT credits, and the difference between standard-rated and zero-rated supplies. Dr Naab is also expected to clarify the obligations of businesses at different size levels and explain how the GRA determines whether a trader should be registered for VAT.

The radio platform offers an accessible way for the GRA to reach informal sector traders, retailers and small business owners who may not have direct access to GRA offices or attend formal tax seminars. Given that a significant portion of Ghana's economy operates informally, using mass media channels like radio is a strategic move to broaden tax awareness beyond urban centres and corporate environments.

Why this matters for Ghana

VAT is one of Ghana's largest sources of government revenue, and improving voluntary compliance directly supports public finances needed for infrastructure, healthcare and education. When businesses understand their obligations clearly, the compliance rate typically improves, reducing the need for costly enforcement actions and building trust between taxpayers and the tax authority.

For Ghanaian businesses, especially SMEs, clearer communication from the GRA can reduce costly mistakes. Many traders inadvertently fail to comply simply because they lack clear guidance rather than deliberate tax avoidance. Radio discussions like this help level the playing field, ensuring that small businesses have access to the same quality of information as larger corporates.

The initiative also reflects a broader shift in tax administration globally towards taxpayer service and education. Rather than relying solely on enforcement, the GRA is investing in dialogue and transparency. This approach has been shown to improve compliance rates and reduce conflict between businesses and tax authorities.

How to participate

The GRA has invited all interested taxpayers, business owners and stakeholders to tune in. For those wishing to ask questions during the programme, listeners can typically call the station during the broadcast. The GRA Connect Radio Show has become a regular platform for tax education, covering various policy updates and procedural reforms affecting the public.

For Ghanaian businesses serious about compliance, this is an excellent opportunity to clarify outstanding questions about VAT without cost or formal appointment. Those unable to listen live can often access repeats or summaries on Joy FM's digital platforms.