The fare hike, which was reportedly set to take effect from Friday, 8 August 2025, was announced by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC). However, COPEC says its checks with major unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), indicate that such a move has not been agreed upon.
In a statement released on Tuesday, COPEC described the proposed fare adjustment as “unjustifiable,” especially amid what it called worsening economic conditions for ordinary Ghanaians.
COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah acknowledged the government’s recent imposition of a GH¢1 per litre fuel levy but pointed out that average fuel prices have dropped in recent months. “Fuel prices, which sold at around GH¢15 per litre in January 2025, have declined to between GH¢11 and GH¢12 per litre,” he said. “A section of drivers even reduced fares by 15% during that period.”
Mr Amoah questioned the rationale behind the proposed fare hike, arguing that current fuel prices do not support such an increase. “The pricing levels as of today are still not anywhere near the January prices from which transport fare discussions could be had,” he added.
He also criticised suggestions that the possible return of road tolls should be factored into fare adjustments, saying the tolls have not yet been reintroduced and should not influence current decisions.
COPEC welcomed the stance of the GPRTU, which has also dismissed the proposed fare hike, citing relative stability in both fuel and spare parts prices.
The chamber urged wider consultation among stakeholders before any adjustments are made to transport fares, warning that unilateral increases could further strain the financial wellbeing of commuters.
