The government has announced a significant reduction in the registration fees for courier service operators, specifically targeting the single dispatch riders, to ease the financial burden and promote compliance within Ghana's booming digital delivery sector. The move, championed by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, seeks to formalize the industry without creating undue hardship for the many young individuals who depend on courier work for their livelihood.
Registration Fee Slashed by 50%
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Minister George disclosed that the government plans to reduce the current GH¢1,070 registration fee for individual courier operators by a temporary 50%, making it easier for riders to regularize their businesses. This decision follows widespread concerns over the high cost, which many single riders argued was prohibitive, especially given their daily income structure.
The full details of the fee reduction are expected to be formalized and captured in a new Fees and Charges Bill, which the Ministry anticipates will be laid before Parliament soon. Once approved, the new structure will make the initial registration significantly more accessible, removing a major barrier to compliance.
Rationale: The Minister emphasized the welfare aspect, stating that many of these young men rely on courier services for employment. Without this job, they face unemployment and the potential for increased security risks. The reduction is seen as a way to enforce the law with a more "humane face," balancing regulation with economic reality.
Moratorium and Digital Compliance Roadmap
In addition to the fee reduction, the Ministry has confirmed an extended moratorium on all enforcement actions against unregistered courier operators until the end of the year. This provides all players in the sector-whether independent riders or those under fleet management-a crucial window of time to obtain the necessary licenses without fear of seizure or harassment.
A new roadmap for enforcement has also been set:
Registration Window: All operators are expected to be licensed within the first three months of next year (January to March 2026).
Enforcement Date: Full enforcement actions will officially commence on April 1, 2026.
Digital System: The government is also pushing the Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission (PCSRC) to develop a digital registration system by December 31, 2025, accessible via USSD and a mobile application. This is aimed at streamlining the process and eliminating the need for constant physical visits to PCSRC offices, further simplifying compliance.
Background on The Regulatory Drive
This intervention by the Communications Minister is a direct response to the public outcry that followed a recent enforcement exercise by the PCSRC and the Ghana Police, which targeted unlicensed delivery riders. The crackdown, while legally mandated by the Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission Act, 2003 (Act 649), was criticized for its aggressive implementation and lack of adequate public sensitization.
By suspending the enforcement and reducing the fees, the government is demonstrating a commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders. The goal remains to sanitize the booming logistics and e-commerce sector-ensuring safety, tax compliance, and consumer protection-but through a fair and consultative process.
Source: This article from citinews is based on the disclosure made by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, during his appearance before the Public Accounts Committee, which has been widely reported by media outlets in Ghana.