Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson is expected to present the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on November 13, Joy Business has learned from sources close to the preparation process.
The date, which is pending parliamentary approval, will mark the government’s first major fiscal presentation since its victory in the 2024 elections, after nearly nine months of managing the economy.
Analysts note that the 2025 Budget largely operated within the policy framework inherited from the previous administration. However, the 2026 Budget is anticipated to set a new direction, reflecting the current government’s economic priorities.
In compliance with the Public Financial Management Act, the Finance Minister, acting on behalf of the President—must submit the national budget to Parliament by November 15 each year. Sources at the Ministry indicate that multiple stakeholder consultations and industry meetings have been concluded to finalize the policies to be captured in the 2026 fiscal document.
Dr Forson has previously emphasized that the upcoming Budget will prioritize job creation and economic growth stimulation, alongside measures to reform the tax system and strengthen revenue mobilization.
According to the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Sarpong, the 2026 Budget will feature a review of the Value Added Tax (VAT), reducing the effective rate from 22% to 20%. This change forms part of a broader reform aimed at simplifying the VAT structure and making it more business-friendly.
Additionally, the Finance Minister is expected to review several tax levies, including the COVID-19 levy, to relieve the tax burden on businesses and households.
With Ghana expected to exit the IMF programmed by May 2026, the presentation will attract significant attention as stakeholders assess the government’s post-programmed economic strategy. The 2026 Budget is therefore poised to become one of the administration’s most defining economic documents, setting the tone for fiscal discipline and sustainable growth.
Economists and industry players will also be watching how Dr Forson plans to manage the fiscal deficit and control public expenditure while maintaining macroeconomic stability throughout 2026.
