The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has raised concerns over the stalled implementation of the vehicle importation tax waiver granted to medical doctors and dentists under their Conditions of Service agreement.
In a statement dated February 19, 2025, the association attributed the delays to a change in government, which has led to a halt in the processing of waivers, leaving some applications pending final approval from the Ministry of Finance.
“This has resulted in vehicles being stuck at the port, accumulating charges by the day and risking confiscation and auction,” the statement stated.
The waiver, which was part of an agreement signed on March 27, 2024, was meant to help medical professionals secure vehicles to facilitate their work, including responding to emergencies.
However, with the current hold on processing, many doctors who imported vehicles are now facing demurrage charges and possible financial losses.
“The Executives have been engaging various stakeholders to resolve the delays and work towards a resumption of the waiver,” the GMA assured its members.
The association urged affected doctors to exercise patience as discussions with the Ministers of Health and Finance continue. It also advised members considering vehicle importation under the waiver to put their plans on hold.
“Applicants with the means may also consider clearing their cars to minimize accumulation of port and demurrage charges,” the statement added.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the GMA reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the issue and ensuring that the tax waiver, which is a key component of their Conditions of Service, is reinstated as soon as possible.
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