The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has cautioned travellers arriving in Ghana that bringing more than two mobile phones may attract full customs duties and taxes.
Commissioner of Customs Aaron Kanor said passengers who bring in more than two phones, especially new devices in significant quantities, could have the items classified as commercial imports.
According to him, Customs officers 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, Aaron Kanor advised travellers against accepting several mobile phones from friends and relatives to transport into Ghana.
He explained that although it is common for travellers to return with phones received from different people, carrying several devices could result in 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 they all give you phones. When you carry all those seven phones, and you arrive, it will amount to what? Commercial,” he said.
He said a traveller may carry a phone for personal use and possibly another for a spouse, but several additional devices could be subjected to duties.
Aaron Kanor also pointed to high-value brands such as iPhones and Samsung as important 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.
He urged travellers to declare goods that go beyond what can reasonably be considered personal effects to avoid difficulties at the airport.
