The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has strongly opposed a proposed 20% increase in public transport fares, said to take effect from Friday, August 8, 2025, describing the move as unjustified and premature.

In a press release dated August 5, 2025, COPEC expressed concern over a public statement by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), which hinted at the imminent fare adjustment.

However, COPEC says checks with major transport unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other driver unions, indicate that no formal decision has been made to implement the increase.

“It is difficult to comprehend what matrices inform any such drastic upward reviews of public transport fares, as that affects largely the poor and already suffering masses,” the statement said.

According to COPEC, the primary argument advanced for the fare hike—the government’s introduction of a new GH¢1 fuel levy—is insufficient grounds to burden commuters further.

While acknowledging the existence of the levy, COPEC argues that recent fuel price trends do not support such a significant increase in fares.

“For the avoidance of doubt, fuel prices, which sold for around GH¢15 per litre in January 2025, have dropped to GH¢11–12 in recent months,” the statement noted.

“A section of drivers even reduced their fares by 15%, although others refused and had to be compelled by local Assemblies.”

COPEC further criticised sections of the transport operators attempting to justify the fare increment, pointing out that current fuel and spare parts prices remain relatively stable and far below levels that would warrant another increase.

The statement also raised concerns about attempts to reintroduce road tolls, which some driver unions fear will increase their operational costs.

COPEC urged broader stakeholder consultations before any such policy is implemented.

Importantly, COPEC emphasised that mere intentions—such as the proposed levy and toll reintroductions—should not be used as justification for fare hikes.

“An intention which has not yet been enforced cannot and should not form the basis of any increment in transport fares,” the Executive Secretary, Duncan Amoah, stated.

COPEC concluded by welcoming the position of the largest transport union, which has reportedly rejected any fare increase at this time.

The chamber called for prudence and sensitivity in decisions affecting commuters and the general cost of living.