A former Member of Parliament for Bortianor‑Ngleshie Amanfro and General Secretary hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sylvester Tetteh, has alleged that the Publican AI system introduced by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) at Ghana’s ports is to enrich some people.
Speaking on New Day on TV3, Sylvester Tetteh alleged, “What I see is a system put in place to enrich some people.”
He argued that revenue targets tied to percentage earnings could influence how values are determined.
“What is turning out is unnecessary inflation of the rates to meet their threshold and get their money”, he added.
Sylvester Tetteh further called for transparency around the Publican AI system.
The former MP demanded the disclosure of its contract and the introduction of an appeals process for importers.
“We are seeking the company, the contract, we want to see the beneficiaries”.
“You should have an appellate body to present your evidence,” he noted.
“If values have been accepted over time and verified, then changes must be properly explained,” he said.
His comments come on the back of Freight forwarders across Ghana’s ports and border posts have begun a four-day boycott of duty payments in protest against the government’s introduction of the “Publican AI” system for determining charges.
The leadership of GIFF has set up a task force and a monitoring team to ensure members comply with the directive.
Meanwhile, Anthony Sarpong, the Ghana Revenue Authority Commissioner-General, has said that two weeks after using Publican AI, Customs revenue increased to ₵3.6 billion, compared to ₵2.4 billion two weeks prior.
He further disclosed that artificial intelligence at Ghana’s ports is not only strengthening revenue monitoring but also helping to create a fairer and more competitive business environment.
The GRA Commissioner-General disclosed that the Publican AI system has exposed GH¢11bn port leakages.
Speaking on Joy FM Super Morning Show on Friday, April 10, 2026, Sarpong said the deployment of the Publican AI system is already addressing long-standing imbalances in the import sector.
He stated, “Those who under-declare are not paying the right taxes, and they have an advantage in pricing over those who comply. If we are able to bring that 25 per cent to pay correctly, they will be at par with everybody, and market distortions will be fair”.
“This is not just about revenue; it is about fairness and ensuring that everyone plays by the same rules”.
“This is the revelation after introducing Publican. It is Publican that has given us this insight,” he said.
Background
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) unveiled a new Artificial Intelligence-driven trade data analytics platform, named Publican AI.
According to the GRA, the Publican AI is designed to enhance revenue mobilisation and tackle customs fraud.
The system employs Artificial Intelligence and machine learning to detect undervaluation, flag high-risk goods, and strengthen the capacity of customs operations.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, stated, “The AI tool will help us achieve accurate duty determination across the board, reducing discretion and ensuring a level playing field for all importers”.
“The Publican AI system will give us 100% coverage of assessment, ensuring that every shipment is scrutinised and valued accurately,” he added.