The Ghana coalition of transport unions has warned that it would be forced to up transport fares by 20% on 7th September, 2023 if the government doesnt reduce petroleum taxes. The said tax affects petrol and diesel, the main cost drivers for their business.
Ghana trotro fares are largely determined by price of petroleum products.
Hitherto, there had been similar calls by the unions but government has not paid heed. So this warning is likely as a result of the perceived adamance of government.
Government has long explained that the hike in the petroleum tax is necessary to balance the ailing economy but the transport associations reject this justification, saying government’s indulgence in opulence, wastefulness and neglect should rather be curtailed to revive the economy.
The coalition of transport unions in Ghana compromises the leading unions namely GPRTU, PROTOA and Cooperative.