Ghana’s Transport Fares to Rise by 20% Starting August 8 - Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council

The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has announced a 20% increase in public transport fares, effective Friday, August 8, 2025. This decision affects all categories of commercial transport, including shared taxis, intra-city “trotro” services, intercity buses, and haulage trucks.

The fare adjustment comes amid mounting operational pressures on transport operators. According to the GRTCC, three key factors have necessitated the hike:

Fuel Price Surge: A newly introduced GH¢1.00 per litre fuel levy has triggered an 8% increase in fuel costs, directly impacting daily operations.

Maintenance and Spare Parts: Despite a 15% fare reduction in May 2025—which was in response to falling petroleum prices—spare parts and servicing costs have remained high, offering no relief to transport businesses.

Deteriorating Road Conditions: Poor infrastructure across major routes has led to frequent vehicle breakdowns and higher maintenance expenses, further straining operators.

The GRTCC has directed all transport unions and operators to:

1.Display updated fare charts at loading terminals.

2.Ensure uniform compliance across regions to prevent arbitrary pricing.

This fare hike is expected to ripple through the economy, potentially increasing the cost of goods and services due to higher logistics expenses. Urban commuters may feel the pinch more acutely, while rural areas could face accessibility challenges.

While some commuters have expressed frustration over the timing, transport unions argue the increase is long overdue and necessary for sustainability. The GRTCC has urged the public to cooperate and report any instances of overcharging or non-compliance.