Ghana Capital Gains Tax Guide 2026

Overview — CGT in Ghana

Capital gains tax in Ghana is governed by Sections 80–90 of the Income Tax Act, 2015 (Act 896). A chargeable gain arises when a person disposes of a chargeable asset for consideration exceeding the allowable cost. Disposal includes sale, exchange, gift, transfer, or deemed disposal (such as loss of an asset or change in use). The tax applies to both individuals and companies. Resident individuals and companies are taxed on worldwide chargeable gains; non-residents are taxed only on gains from Ghanaian assets. The rate is a flat 15% on net chargeable gains, not included in ordinary income. For companies, CGT is separate from corporate income tax.

CGT Rate — 15%

The CGT rate in Ghana is a flat 15% on net chargeable gains. The chargeable gain is calculated as: Consideration received minus (Acquisition cost + Incidental costs of acquisition and disposal + Enhancement expenditure). Allowable costs include the original purchase price, legal fees, valuation costs, stamp duty, survey fees, and capital improvements. Only expenditure that has been incurred wholly and exclusively for the acquisition or enhancement of the asset qualifies. The gain must be reported in the tax year in which the disposal occurs. CGT is assessed separately from income tax and is not subject to the progressive PAYE rates.

GSE Share Exemption

Gains from the disposal of shares listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) are exempt from capital gains tax. This exemption was introduced to encourage investment in the Ghanaian capital market and to improve market liquidity. The exemption applies to all listed shares, regardless of the holding period or the size of the gain. Unlisted shares and shares traded on other exchanges are not exempt. Gains from the disposal of GSE-listed bonds and other securities are also generally exempt from CGT.

Principal Residence Relief

Gain from the disposal of an individual's principal private residence is exempt from CGT, provided the property has been occupied as the main residence throughout the period of ownership. Partial relief is available where a property has been used partly as a residence and partly for business, or where the period of occupation covers only part of the ownership period. The relief covers the building and up to 0.5 acres of land (or larger where required for reasonable enjoyment of the property). Additional residences (second homes, investment properties) are fully chargeable.

Rollover Relief

Rollover relief allows a person to defer CGT when the proceeds from the disposal of a business asset are reinvested in a replacement business asset. The relief applies to assets used in a trade, profession, or business. To qualify, the replacement asset must be acquired within 12 months before or 36 months after the disposal. The gain is rolled over by reducing the cost base of the replacement asset by the amount of the gain deferred. Partial relief is available where only part of the proceeds are reinvested. Rollover relief does not apply to assets that are not used in a business (e.g., personal investments).

Property & Real Estate Gains

Gains from the disposal of real property (land and buildings) are subject to CGT at 15%. However, Ghana also imposes a capital gains withholding tax on property disposals: the purchaser must withhold 15% of the consideration and remit it to GRA. This is a final tax for the vendor if they are a non-resident or if the property was held for less than 5 years. For residents holding property for more than 5 years, the withholding tax is an advance payment against the final CGT liability. The withholding tax on property was introduced to improve compliance in the real estate sector.

FAQs

How do I calculate my chargeable gain?

The chargeable gain is the difference between the disposal proceeds (net of selling costs) and the acquisition cost (plus enhancement expenditure and buying costs). Example: Buy land for GHS 200,000, sell for GHS 350,000, costs of GHS 15,000. Gain = 350,000 − 200,000 − 15,000 = GHS 135,000. CGT at 15% = GHS 20,250.

Can I offset capital losses against capital gains?

Yes, capital losses in a tax year may be offset against capital gains in the same year. Unrelieved losses may be carried forward for up to 5 years but cannot be offset against other income (e.g., salary or business profits).

What assets are exempt from CGT?

Principal residence, GSE-listed shares, government securities, motor vehicles (personal use), assets held for less than 6 months (trading assets taxed as income instead), and assets transferred on death (no deemed disposal).

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Ghanaian capital gains tax for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Ghanaian tax advisor or the Ghana Revenue Authority for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.