It is my distinct honour to join you today as we mark International Customs Day 2026.
This day is set aside by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to recognize the invaluable role of Customs administrations across the world.
Today’s occasion gives us the opportunity to reflect on the critical role Customs plays in protecting our nation.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” speaks directly to the responsibility placed on Customs officers to remain alert, dedicated, and professional in the discharge of their duties.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In an era of increasing global trade and complex security threats, the work of Customs goes beyond revenue collection.
Customs officers have a responsibility to protect the country’s borders, ports, airports, and entry points. They must also ensure smooth and faster clearance of goods through legitimate trade in order to facilitate economic growth.
Over the years, our nation has relied on the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority to remain vigilant and committed to these important responsibilities.
It is through your vigilance that our country is protected from the influx of illicit drugs, small arms and ammunition, counterfeit pharmaceuticals, substandard goods, and environmentally harmful products.
These threats, if left unchecked, undermine public health, national security, and economic stability.
Customs therefore remains central to Ghana’s safety. That said, protecting society is not the responsibility of Customs alone.
It requires strong partnerships across government institutions, security agencies, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society.
At the Ministry of Finance, we are determined to empower you to safeguard our nation’s security and economy.
In this regard, we will undertake policy reforms to strengthen capacity, pursue digitalization, and scale up investment in modern infrastructure and technology.
Our goal is to build a Customs administration that is efficient, professional, and responsive to the needs of both the state and the trading community, while ensuring a secure and safe environment for all stakeholders.
Revenue remains the lifeblood of the country. Government’s ability to deliver critical infrastructure, quality education, healthcare, and other vital services depends on our capacity to mobilize adequate revenue.
The contribution of Customs to the overall revenue target of the Ghana Revenue Authority is significant. We are therefore counting on you to support the attainment of this year’s revenue targets.
My charge to you today is to rededicate yourselves to your duties with integrity and patriotism.
We must take decisive steps to eradicate all forms of corruption and fraud, as every cedi lost represents a missed opportunity for national development.
Revenue lost through corruption translates into unbuilt schools, unpaved roads, and lives adversely affected by inadequate healthcare, unsafe drinking water, and poor sanitation.
We must uphold the highest standards, root out unethical behaviour at all levels, and exemplify transparency, accountability, and service to the nation.
Your vigilance at our ports, borders, and entry points is critical to securing our economic future. Your work is vital to protecting society and safeguarding Ghana’s future.
I wish the Ghana Revenue Authority and all Customs Officers a Happy International Customs Day.
Thank you, and may God bless our homeland Ghana.