Don't bring more than two phones, or it becomes commercial importation - GRA Customs boss warns travelers

The Commissioner of Customs at the Ghana Revenue Authority, Aaron Kanor, has cautioned travelers arriving in Ghana not to carry more than two mobile phones.

According to him, carrying phones beyond two will be classified as commercial importation at the airport and will attract duty.

Speaking to journalists at the Kotoka International Airport, Mr. Kanor explained that every individual is entitled to one phone, but Customs will allow a maximum of two - one for personal use and one for a spouse.

He noted that some travelers collect phones from family and friends abroad, arriving with up to seven phones, which amounts to commercial quantities.

"If Ama gives you one phone, Kofi gives you one phone, and you carry all seven phones and you arrive, it will amount to commercial, because you as an individual you are entitled to one," he said.

"We implore that when you are coming home you do not collect people's things. If you collect them and they are beyond two - one individual you can only carry two, one for yourself and one for your wife - but beyond that it amounts to commercial."

He added that most of the phones, including iPhones and the latest Samsung devices, are expensive, and that is one area where Customs can generate revenue.