Ghana’s corporate sector is beginning to warm toward the country’s tax environment, as recent policy reforms including the withdrawal of the E-Levy and the COVID-19 levy ease compliance costs and strengthen business confidence.
But as 2025 winds down, firms say their optimism for 2026 will depend heavily on whether government maintains the momentum of these relief measures.
This is according to the 2025 Business Environment and Competitiveness Survey conducted by the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC), which shows a notable shift in sentiment across key regulatory and competitiveness indicators.
One of the strongest gains recorded was in perceptions of Ghana’s tax regime. Businesses reported a 16% improvement in tax-related sentiments compared to previous years, citing simpler processes, reduced levies, and predictability.
Respondents also pointed to a more stable regulatory environment that allows firms to plan investments with greater certainty, marking a significant departure from the volatility of the past few years.
The survey shows that more businesses are adopting standardised processes and certifications to align with global quality requirements.
Perceptions of Ghana’s quality control landscape have steadily improved over the last three years, with 2025 marking the most significant leap.
According to the UKGCC, firms are strengthening internal systems in response to both regulatory expectations and growing export ambitions.
Perhaps the most striking finding is the rise in firms’ confidence about competing internationally.
This year, 67% of respondents believe they can meet global competition standards — up from 52% in 2024, representing a 15-percentage-point jump.
Analysts attribute this surge to favourable macroeconomic developments in the first half of 2025, including easing inflation, improved currency stability, and a gradual revival in private-sector credit.
While sentiment is improving, businesses remain cautious. Many executives stress that maintaining policy consistency will be critical to sustaining confidence into 2026.
The UKGCC notes that predictable taxation, streamlined regulations, and continued macroeconomic stability will determine whether firms can fully convert their optimism into long-term investment and expansion decisions.
With Ghana preparing its fiscal and policy frameworks for the coming year, the message from the private sector is clear: tax reforms have renewed confidence but consistency will determine whether it lasts.