COPEC Says No to 20% Transport Fare Hike

Accra, Ghana – 5 August, 2025 – The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has firmly rejected reports of a proposed 20% increase in public transport fares set to take effect on August 8, 2025. According to COPEC, the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council's (GRTCC) announcement lacks justification, particularly given the current economic pressures facing ordinary Ghanaians.

COPEC in a statement it issued today notes that fuel prices have decreased significantly since January 2025, from GH¢15 per litre to around GH¢11-12 per litre. This reduction led some transport operators to decrease fares by 15%, making a further increase unjustifiable.
COPEC maintained that it checks with major transport unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), revealed no official agreement on the fare hike, rendering the announcement premature thus criticizing attempts to factor in the potential reintroduction of road tolls into fare calculations, arguing that the tolls have not been implemented and should not influence fare decisions.

COPEC indicated that it welcomes the stance of the largest transport union, GPRTU, which has rejected the fare increase citing stable fuel and spare parts prices. Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah emphasizes the need for broader consultations among stakeholders before making decisions that could worsen the financial burden on commuters.

COPEC urges policymakers and transport operators to prioritize the interests of commuters and engage in thorough discussions before implementing any fare adjustments. This stance aims to protect the already suffering masses from further economic strain.

Source - Lead News Online/Leticia Okpoti