In Accra, Ghana, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has firmly opposed a proposed 20% increase in commercial transport fares, warning it would unfairly burden already struggling citizens.
The proposal, allegedly being considered by some transport operators, lacks any formal endorsement from key unions like the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), according to COPEC.
COPEC’s research and stakeholder engagements found no concrete justification for the hike, especially in light of recent fuel price trends and the absence of significant cost increases.
While some drivers cite the government’s new One Ghana cedi fuel levy as a reason, COPEC insists that it is insufficient to override recent pump price reductions recorded since January 2025.
Fuel prices have dropped from GH₵15 to around GH₵11–GH₵12per litre, with some drivers voluntarily cutting fares by 15%, even as others resisted, prompting enforcement from local assemblies.
COPEC argues current fuel pricing levels do not warrant a fare increase, and suggests any attempt to raise fares now is premature and harmful to the general public.
The organization also dismissed the anticipated reintroduction of road tolls as a valid reason for fare hikes, stressing that pending policies should not influence current pricing decisions.
They warned that fare increases based on such premature assumptions could inflame public frustration, especially as citizens are already calling for reductions in the cost of goods and services.
COPEC emphasized that GPRTU, the largest transport union, has not approved any fare hikes, noting that neither fuel nor spare parts have risen in price to justify such action.
In conclusion, COPEC urged transport operators to prioritize public interest and avoid moves that would deepen economic hardship for Ghana’s most vulnerable commuters.