The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has warned travellers arriving in Ghana that carrying more than two mobile phones could result in the payment of full customs duties and taxes. Commissioner of Customs, Aaron Kanor, explained that passengers who bring in more than two phones, particularly new devices in large quantities, risk having the items classified as commercial imports.
According to him, Customs officials assess the quantity and nature of goods carried by passengers to determine whether they qualify as personal effects or are intended for commercial purposes. Speaking to journalists after a tour of the Accra International Airport on Wednesday, September 2, Kanor urged travellers to be cautious about accepting multiple mobile phones from friends and relatives for transportation into Ghana.
He noted that while it is common for travellers to return to Ghana with phones given to them by different people, carrying several devices could lead to additional tax obligations. “In Ghana, because of our culture, when one is travelling, Ama gives you one phone, Kofi gives you another, and all the day-borns give you phones. When you carry all those seven phones, what will it amount to? Commercial,” he said.
Kanor explained that a traveller may reasonably bring one phone for personal use and possibly another for a spouse. However, carrying several additional devices could attract customs duties if they are deemed to exceed what would ordinarily be considered personal effects.
He also highlighted high-value brands such as iPhones and Samsung devices as significant sources of revenue for Customs. “If you look at iPhone, Samsung, they are very expensive. That is where we can get our revenue,” he added. The Commissioner therefore urged travellers to declare goods that exceed reasonable personal-use quantities to avoid potential difficulties and additional tax liabilities at the airport.
