The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has strongly rejected claims of a looming 20% increase in transport fares, slated for Friday, August 8, 2025.

According to the advocacy group, there is no official agreement among transport unions to implement such an adjustment, and any unilateral announcement lacks legitimacy.

“Our attention has been drawn to a public statement by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council on a purported looming transport fare increment of about 20%.
“Our checks with the various transport Unions including the GPRTU and other driver Unions indicate no such decision has been taken.”
COPEC’s Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah

He noted that their feedback was unanimous: no formal decision had been made to increase fares.

The responds from COPEC follows widespread speculation and reports attributed to the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), suggesting that public transportation fares would be increased significantly this week.

The announcement, which quickly gained traction among drivers and commuters, raised concern across the country.

COPEC questioned the rationale behind what he called a “drastic upward review,” warning that any unjustified increase would disproportionately impact low-income citizens who are already struggling with rising living costs.

Mr. Amoah addressed the claims that the newly introduced GHS 1 energy levy justified the fare hike.

While acknowledging the levy’s effect on fuel prices, he maintained that its impact was insufficient to reverse the downward fuel price trends observed in recent months.

As of January 2025, fuel prices were hovering around GHS 15 per litre. However, following several reductions, prices dropped to the range of GHS 11 to GHS 12 per litre.

He explained that during the period of price reductions, a section of drivers had responsibly adjusted fares downward by about 15%.

However, some transport operators resisted and had to be compelled by local authorities to comply.

“The pricing levels as of today are still not anywhere near the January prices. “So, we are surprised at the attempt to justify a further increase in fares.”
COPEC’s Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah

COPEC Cautions Against Hasty Fare Hikes

Another point raised by COPEC concerned ongoing discussions around reintroducing road tolls. While this remains a proposal and has yet to be enforced, some drivers have cited the potential reimplementation of toll fees as part of their justification for fare adjustments.

“The attempt to reintroduce the toll system will have monetary implications.
“But an intention that has not yet been enforced should not form the basis of any increment in transport fares.”
COPEC’s Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah

He added that public consultation on such policies must be broad and inclusive, especially given the financial pressures facing commuters.

COPEC’s position aligns with that of the country’s largest transport union, which has publicly distanced itself from the proposed fare hikes.

The union indicated that current market conditions, including fuel prices and the cost of spare parts, do not support a fare increase.

COPEC urged restraint and transparency in any future fare adjustment processes. The organization emphasized that all stakeholders from government agencies and unions to consumer protection groups, must be part of any decision-making process to ensure fairness and accountability.

“This is not the time to impose additional burdens on the already suffering masses.
“We urge the public to remain calm, and we call on transport authorities to engage meaningfully with unions and the public before making any announcements that could destabilize the economy further.”
COPEC’s Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah

As the debate continues, all eyes remain on the Ministry of Transport, which has yet to issue a definitive statement on the matter. For now, COPEC’s message is clear: fare hikes must be justified by hard data and real economic shifts not assumptions or speculation.