Tempers are flaring in Ghana’s automotive import sector as the Concerned Importers of Vehicles, a vocal advocacy group, threatens to march on the Jubilee House if authorities do not act swiftly to address what they describe as ongoing manipulation of imported vehicle ages at the nation’s ports.
The controversy centers on persistent allegations that, despite clear regulations, some importers can alter the manufacturing years of vehicles arriving from Japan and Dubai, skirting penalties imposed on over-aged cars. The group says this practice not only flouts the Customs (Amendment) Act, 2020, which bans the import of salvaged vehicles and those older than ten years, but also fosters confusion and corruption within the industry.
Fredericka Ackah, a leading member of the Concerned Importers, spoke passionately to the media on January 25, 2026. She recalled assurances given to importers the previous year: “In 2025, we were told that the ages of vehicles from Japan and Dubai would not be reduced. Yet, some people are still doing it. Recently, a friend of mine imported vehicles from Japan; some had their years reduced, others didn’t.”
Ackah warned that these inconsistencies have left many importers uncertain and have opened the door for unscrupulous individuals to profit. “If the Commissioner does not act, we will storm the Jubilee House to demand intervention at the highest level,” she said, signaling the group’s readiness to escalate the matter to the Presidency.
The group alleges that some vehicles manufactured as early as 2007 or 2008 are fraudulently registered as 2011 or 2013, allowing importers to avoid penalties for over-aged vehicles. Ackah and her colleagues argue that this not only undermines fair competition but also chips away at the government’s efforts to encourage local vehicle assembly and protect consumers.
The Concerned Importers are calling for urgent action from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), urging stricter inspections and vigilance at the ports. “If the age can be reduced, importers will just seek out those who can help them dodge the penalties,” Ackah explained. “DVLA must thoroughly check any vehicle whose age appears suspicious.”
She further revealed that her group holds documentary evidence supporting claims of age manipulation and is prepared to present these to the authorities
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
