Finance minister to present 2026 budget on November 13

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is expected to present the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Wednesday, November 13, according to sources at the Finance Ministry.

The proposed date, pending formal approval by Parliament, will mark the first full-year budget of the Mahama administration since its return to power in 2025.

It is expected to be the government’s most significant fiscal presentation yet, following nine months of navigating both global and domestic economic challenges.

Analysts note that the 2025 Budget, presented shortly after the administration took office, largely followed the fiscal path set by the previous government.

The upcoming 2026 Budget, however, is expected to introduce major policy shifts that reflect the new administration’s own economic priorities and development agenda.

Under the Public Financial Management Act, the Finance Minister must present the national budget to Parliament by November 15 each year.

The Finance Ministry has already concluded several rounds of stakeholder consultations with industry leaders, civil society groups, and development partners.

These discussions have helped shape the policy measures and spending priorities that will guide the 2026 fiscal plan.

Dr. Forson has hinted that the new budget will focus on job creation, economic growth, and productivity, with targeted investments in sectors that promote innovation and youth employment.

Sources also suggest that the budget will unveil a comprehensive tax reform agenda, broadening the revenue base while easing the tax burden on households and businesses.

Among other measures, the Finance Minister is expected to review several levies, including the COVID-19 levy, to support business recovery and boost consumer confidence.

With Ghana expected to exit the IMF programme in May 2026, the budget will attract close scrutiny for its post-programme economic strategy.

Economists will be watching for details on how the government plans to sustain fiscal discipline, stimulate growth, and maintain macroeconomic stability.

A key focus will also be on how Dr. Forson intends to manage the fiscal deficit, rising debt servicing costs, and the need to fund critical infrastructure and social programmes.

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