Ghana Business Landscape: Revenue Challenges, Infrastructure Growth, and Emerging 24-Hour Economy Policies

Ghana's economic landscape is currently navigating a complex mix of revenue shortfalls, infrastructure modernization, and strategic policy shifts. Data from 2025 reveals that airport tax revenue fell by GH‵400 million, missing its target of GH‵1.95 billion by 20%. This shortfall, the first since 2020, has prompted the government to introduce new levies on airline tickets, with domestic passengers paying GH‵100 and international travelers facing surcharges of up to $100. Concurrently, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has intensified efforts to curb revenue leakages by cracking down on landlords and foreign tenants in areas like East Legon and Tema who are converting residential properties into commercial offices to evade taxes. These fiscal measures come as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) continues delicate negotiations with the Ministry of Transport regarding fare reviews necessitated by rising global oil prices.

Despite these fiscal hurdles, significant infrastructure developments are underway to position Ghana as a regional hub. The Ghana Airports Company Limited is set to commence construction of a new modern concourse at Accra International Airport, designed to connect Terminals 2 and 3 and enhance the passenger experience with travelators and premium lounges. In the private sector, prominent businessman Ibrahim Mahama is contributing to national capacity by converting his 'Dzata Jet' (N604EP) into a dedicated national air ambulance. This initiative, following the acquisition of a new Bombardier Global 6500, is aimed at providing advanced medical care systems and improving emergency medical response across the country.

At the regional level, the government's '24-Hour Economy' policy is beginning to catalyze growth and attract foreign direct investment. In the Savannah Region, contracts have been signed for the construction of modern 24-hour markets in commercial centers like Bole, Buipe, and Damongo to stimulate local trade. This policy framework is also resonating internationally; Nigerian investors are increasing their footprint in Ghana's aviation, banking, and energy sectors. This was highlighted by the inaugural flight of Nigeria's ValueJet and the establishment of a $15 million CNG facility, signaling growing confidence in Ghana’s investment climate.

In the corporate and digital space, MultiChoice Ghana has announced a major strategic transition, phasing out the Showmax platform by April 30, 2026. Subscribers will be migrated to the DStv Stream package, which integrates Showmax Originals with live TV and sports at discounted rates. These combined developments across aviation, taxation, and digital services underscore a period of transition for the Ghanaian economy, where the government and private sector alike are seeking a balance between revenue generation, infrastructure expansion, and improved service delivery for citizens.