Transport Unions Suspend 30% Fare Increase as Government Seeks Fuel Price Relief

Ghana’s road transport operators have temporarily shelved plans to implement a 30% increase in transport fares, opting instead to wait for the outcome of the next petroleum pricing window on Friday after government appealed for time to roll out measures aimed at easing fuel prices.

The decision follows discussions between transport unions and government, during which authorities requested that operators delay the fare adjustment while efforts are made to reduce the cost of petroleum products.

Speaking on behalf of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoah said the proposed fare increase remains under consideration and will depend on developments in the upcoming fuel price review.

The union, however, remains cautious. According to Mr. Amoah, its own market assessments suggest fuel prices could rise further in the next pricing window, a scenario that could revive pressure for higher transport fares.

Commercial transport operators argue that current pump prices—around GH¢17.78 per litre for diesel and GH¢14.95 per litre for petrol—have significantly squeezed operating margins, leaving many drivers struggling to remain profitable.

Some drivers have reportedly stopped operating on less profitable routes, saying rising fuel costs have made certain journeys economically unsustainable.

The temporary suspension offers commuters short-term relief, but the outlook remains uncertain. Should fuel prices climb again, transport operators are expected to revisit the proposed fare adjustment, making Friday’s fuel price review a key indicator for the sector and the broader inflation outlook.