The Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), Duncan Amoah, has renewed calls on transport operators to adjust fares downward to reflect recent drops in fuel prices, despite claims that other operational costs remain high.

Speaking to Class News Duncan Amoah responded to concerns from drivers who argue that lower fuel prices do not necessarily reduce overall running expenses due to the rising cost of items such as spare parts and engine oils. While acknowledging these challenges, he insisted that fuel remains a major factor in transport fare determination and must be taken into account.

He explained that fuel constitutes a significant portion of transport cost calculations and that notable reductions at the pumps should reasonably influence passenger fares. To illustrate his point, Mr Amoah compared current prices with those from a year ago, noting that fuel sold at nearly GH¢15 per litre in January 2025, while average prices now stand at about GH¢11.50 per litre.

According to him, the difference represents a meaningful decline that should feature prominently in fare discussions. He added that although other expenses may not have reduced at the same rate, fuel pricing remains one of the strongest drivers of transport costs and presents an opportunity to ease the burden on commuters.

Duncan Amoah disclosed that COPEC plans to engage leadership of transport unions to push for fare reviews aligned with prevailing fuel prices. He said the discussions are expected to begin early next week.

The renewed call follows earlier appeals by COPEC for commercial transport providers, including ride-hailing companies such as Uber, Bolt and Yango, to revise their charges following reductions in ex-pump prices by several oil marketing firms.

COPEC has linked the recent fuel price cuts to lower global refined petroleum prices, relative stability of the cedi, and heightened competition within Ghana’s deregulated downstream petroleum sector. The Chamber’s year-on-year analysis shows that petrol and diesel prices have dropped by between GH¢3 and GH¢4 per litre since January 2025, resulting in considerable savings.

The Chamber maintains that consumers should enjoy relief when market conditions improve, just as they absorb increases during periods of price escalation. It has also praised oil marketing companies that have already adjusted prices and encouraged others to follow suit.

Transport fares were last reviewed in May last year, when a 15 percent reduction was implemented after talks between transport unions and the Ministry of Transport, supported by favourable economic indicators. COPEC argues that current market conditions once again warrant a reassessment of fares to reduce pressure on passengers.