Telcos increase tariffs over new NHIL, GETFund levies

Consumers are to pay more for telecom services starting November 1, 2018.

It follows  a decision by telecommunication companies, AirtelTigo, MTN and Vodafone to adjust their tariffs.

The review of the tariffs was announced in a statement issued by the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications.

The Chamber says the upward adjustment of charges follows the implementation of some new tax by government.

In the midyear budget review, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta announced the conversion of the 5 percent National Health Insurance and GETFund Levies into straight levies.

This means that the two components will each weigh 5 percent on the cost of goods and services purchased.

By the new move, manufacturers were denied the 5 percent output claims that they were initially entitled to.

“The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications On behalf of its members – AirtelTigo, MTN and Vodafone – wishes to notify its esteemed customers and the general public of tariff modifications following the implementation of the new tax laws,” a statement from the Chamber said.

The telcos say they would comply fully with Ghana’s laws and ensure the distinction between VAT and the new levies emanating from their separate origins and basis in law.

The statement by the telecoms Chamber added that; “the intended the incidence of the two new levies will thus be on consumers and will result in the increase of the cost of telecommunication services.”

Again, “customers of telecommunication services will be notified by their service providers prior to any changes being made and the expected changes will take effect on 1st of November 2018.”

By: Pius Amihere Eduku/citibusinessnews.com/Ghana