Publican AI System: GRA Confirms No Delays or Increased Costs for Importers

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has assured importers that the introduction of the Publican Digital Inspection Solution System, an artificial intelligence–driven tool, will not result in new levies or charges and does not duplicate existing customs platforms. The Authority says the system is designed to enhance customs operations by blocking revenue leakages, improving compliance, and strengthening efficiency across Ghana’s ports and entry points. Speaking at a stakeholder engagement organized by the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the GRA, the Commissioner of the GRA, Anthony Sarpong, stated that the new AI-powered system will complement the existing customs infrastructure and significantly enhance valuation, duty assessment, and risk detection, without imposing additional costs on importers. He stressed that the Publican system does not replace the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), which remains the core platform for processing customs transactions nationwide. “ICUMS has been in use for over five years and continues to be our base platform at the ports, airports, and all entry points. The Publican system is a complementary tool that interfaces with ICOMS to strengthen customs operations, particularly in valuation and classification,” the Commissioner said. According to the Commissioner, the system has undergone proof-of-concept testing and pilot phases to ensure operational readiness ahead of full implementation. Faster and More Accurate Duty Assessment One of the key benefits of the AI-driven system is speed. Currently, the process of valuation and classification relies heavily on human effort and can take up to two hours after importers submit their documentation. With the Publican system, preliminary duty assessments can be generated within five minutes. “The AI supports our officers to perform in minutes what currently takes hours,” the Commissioner explained. “This will lead to faster clearance times, improved efficiency, and a better experience for importers.” Beyond speed, the system is expected to improve accuracy and consistency in duty assessment by reducing discretion and standardising evaluations across customs officers. “When assessments rely solely on human judgment, outcomes can vary,” he noted. “With AI support, we expect greater accuracy and uniformity, ensuring fairness across the board.” Enhanced Risk Profiling and Enforcement The Publican system also integrates international customs data to strengthen risk profiling, enabling the GRA to flag high-risk consignments, manufacturers, or importers associated with contraband or substandard goods. The Commissioner cited recent enforcement challenges, including attempts by smugglers to evade detection by changing routes and concealing prohibited goods. In one case, large quantities of Tramadol were intercepted at the Takoradi Port after being hidden behind consignments of ceiling fans. “As we close one loophole, importers attempt to exploit another,” he said. “Technology allows us to identify risks early and deploy human resources more effectively.” He also highlighted collaboration with the Ministry of Transport to prevent excavators imported for legitimate use from being diverted to illegal mining activities, noting a shift in such imports from seaports to land borders. Revenue Protection and Economic Impact The GRA believes the system will strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation by closing leakages and improving compliance, thereby supporting government’s broader development agenda. “This is about protecting revenue, improving efficiency, and ensuring fairness,” the Commissioner said. “When revenue leakages are blocked, the entire country benefits.” The Authority has called on the media and stakeholders to support the rollout through constructive engagement and feedback as implementation begins.