The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has announced that the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) programme will become mandatory for all used vehicle imports starting October 1, 2026.
Under the new regime, every second-hand vehicle destined for Ghana must be inspected and certified in its country of export before shipment, ensuring compliance with Ghana Standard GS 4510, the national benchmark for imported used vehicles.
The initiative is designed to eliminate unsafe and environmentally hazardous vehicles from Ghanaian roads while strengthening consumer protection and enhancing road safety nationwide.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement, Deputy Director-General Samuel Abdulai Jabanyite stated that “for too long, Ghana has been a destination for vehicles deemed unsafe elsewhere. The PVoC programme is our firm response. We are raising the standard to protect lives, property, and the environment.”
The regulations prohibit the importation of vehicles that are flood- or fire-damaged, structurally compromised, over 10 years old, originally manufactured as right-hand-drive, assembled from spare parts, or lacking kilometre-readout speedometers.
Mr. Jabanyite emphasised that inspections would be rigorous and conducted by internationally accredited third-party agencies.
“We will not compromise on safety. Any vehicle that endangers motorists or passengers has no place on Ghana’s roads.”
In addition, the GSA is rolling out the Vehicle Dealer Information System (VEDIS), a digital platform integrating data from the DVLA, insurance companies, National Security, Interpol, and the GSA to enable real-time verification and combat vehicle theft.
Industry players reportedly expressed growing support for the reforms following extensive consultations, paving the way for nationwide implementation.
With the October deadline approaching, the GSA is urging importers, dealers, and exporters to familiarise themselves with the new requirements, warning that compliance will be strictly enforced.
“Our objective is simple,” Mr. Jabanyite concluded.
“Every vehicle arriving in Ghana must meet acceptable safety standards before it reaches our roads. This reform places the lives of Ghanaians first and strengthens confidence in the country’s automotive industry.”
