GRA to Deploy AI to Tackle Import Fraud from February 1 – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is set to revolutionize customs operations at the country’s borders. Starting February 1, the Customs Division will deploy an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered system designed to detect and prevent import fraud, enhance trade facilitation, and boost government revenue. This strategic move, beginning at the Tema Port, aims to address long-standing challenges in import declaration and valuation. By leveraging real-time data analytics, the GRA seeks to close revenue leakages estimated at billions of cedis while ensuring that legitimate trade moves faster and more transparently.

Key Points

Background

The introduction of this AI system follows years of operating under the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), which was introduced in June 2020. While ICUMS improved the harmonization of cross-border trade processes and reduced transaction costs, it revealed persistent vulnerabilities.

According to data from the 2026 Budget, there is a staggering discrepancy between processed transactions and actual imports. Between April 2020 and August 2025, over 525,000 IDF transactions, valued at approximately $83 billion, were processed through ICUMS. However, only 10,440 of these transactions were linked to actual physical imports.

This gap suggests that roughly $31 billion was transferred out of the country without corresponding goods entering Ghana. Additionally, under-declared imports valued at about GH¢76 billion resulted in an estimated revenue loss of GH¢11 billion. These figures highlight the urgent need for a more sophisticated, technology-driven approach to customs administration.

Analysis

The deployment of the AI-powered analytics system represents a decisive shift from manual verification to predictive intelligence in customs operations. Here is a detailed analysis of how this technology will function and its implications for trade and revenue assurance.

Combating Systemic Fraud

Traditional customs processes often rely on manual checks and risk profiles that can be manipulated or outdated. The new system addresses “entrenched abuses” by integrating customs and cross-border business data. It allows for real-time cross-referencing of declarations against reliable global data sources. This capability is crucial for detecting:

• Undervaluation: Importers declaring goods at a lower value to pay less duty.
• Misclassification: Categorizing goods under a tariff heading with a lower duty rate than appropriate.
• Falsification: Altering documents to mask the true nature or origin of goods.

Enhancing Revenue Mobilization

Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, emphasized that while the previous system improved operational efficiency, chronic challenges undermined customs controls. The AI system is designed to close these “progress leakages.” By flagging high-risk transactions within minutes, the GRA can recover revenue that would otherwise be lost. The pilot phase of the system already demonstrated effectiveness, showing significant revenue recovery from a small sample of transactions.

Supporting Customs Officials

Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, clarified that the technology is not intended to replace human officers but to empower them. In an era where customs operations are data-driven, distorted data leads to distorted outcomes. The AI provides officers with real-time intelligence and credible cross-border benchmarks, reducing the reliance on slow, manual investigations. This support allows officials to verify declarations with higher accuracy and confidence.

Practical Advice

For importers, freight forwarders, and business owners operating in Ghana, the implementation of this AI system requires preparation and compliance. Here are practical steps to ensure smooth clearance from February 1 onwards:

Ensure Accurate Documentation

The AI system will scrutinize every shipment document in real-time. Importers must ensure that all Import Declaration Forms (IDFs) accurately reflect the nature, value, and classification of goods. Discrepancies between declared values and global market benchmarks will likely trigger immediate flags.

Understand Tariff Classifications

With the system capable of detecting misclassification, businesses should review their Harmonized System (HS) codes. Ensure that goods are categorized correctly according to the latest customs tariff schedules to avoid penalties or delays.

Prepare for Real-Time Verification

Unlike manual checks that might take days, the AI system processes data within minutes. Importers should be prepared for faster decision-making. If a shipment is flagged as high-risk, it may require additional scrutiny, but compliant shipments should experience faster clearance times.

Engage with Stakeholders

The GRA has committed to ongoing stakeholder engagement. Importers should participate in sensitization programs and maintain open communication with customs agents to stay updated on procedural adjustments.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Ghana Revenue Authority’s decision to deploy an AI-powered system to tackle import fraud marks a significant milestone in modernizing the country’s customs administration. By addressing the gaps in the previous ICUMS framework, the GRA aims to secure billions in lost revenue while facilitating legitimate trade. For compliant businesses, this technological advancement promises a more transparent, predictable, and efficient clearance process. As the February 1 deadline approaches, the focus shifts to stakeholder cooperation and the successful integration of data-driven intelligence into Ghana’s revenue assurance strategy.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily. (2026, January 19). GRA to deploy AI to take on import fraud from February 1. Retrieved from Life Pulse Daily.
• MyJoyOnline. (2026, January 19). GRA to deploy AI to take on import fraud from February 1. Retrieved from www.myjoyonline.com.
• Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Official Communications.
• 2026 Budget Statement of the Government of Ghana.