Ghana’s AI customs system boosts revenue to GH¢6.1bn
Ghana’s customs revenue rose to GH¢6.1 billion in July after full deployment of the AI-powered Publican AI system, generating an additional GH¢1.3 to GH¢1.5 billion monthly.
Ghana’s customs revenue rose to GH¢6.1 billion in July 2026 following the full deployment of the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) artificial intelligence-powered Publican AI system. GRA Commissioner-General Anthony Sarpong said monthly customs collections averaged about GH¢4 billion before the system was introduced. Revenue increased to GH¢5.5 billion in June before reaching GH¢6.1 billion in July.
He said Publican AI, fully implemented in April, has improved the valuation of imported goods and boosted revenue mobilisation. The reforms have generated an additional GH¢1.3 billion to GH¢1.5 billion monthly, according to the GRA. The Authority is also preparing a new system to improve VAT collection. Sarpong said only about four in 10 businesses currently comply with VAT requirements. Parliament has approved the installation of devices at shops and service points to strengthen VAT monitoring. The GRA also plans to introduce rewards for consumers who demand VAT receipts.
The success of Ghana’s AI-powered customs system is a lesson for Nigeria. Nigeria has been struggling with revenue mobilisation, and the adoption of AI could significantly improve customs collection. The GRA’s focus on VAT compliance is also relevant, as Nigeria’s VAT collection has been below potential.
From a Nigerian vantage point, Ghana’s success is a reminder that technology can transform revenue administration. The Nigerian Customs Service has made some progress, but it lags behind Ghana in the adoption of AI.
This echoes the 2021 introduction of digital customs systems in other African countries, which also boosted revenue. The mechanism then was different, but the result was the same: a focus on technology-driven revenue mobilisation.
The winners: the Ghanaian government, which has boosted revenue; and the GRA, which has modernised its operations. The losers: importers who face stricter valuation; and the Nigerian government, which must catch up.
Bottom Line: Ghana’s AI customs system is generating billions in additional revenue. Nigeria is watching. The question is whether Nigeria will adopt similar technology or lag behind.