Discretionary Audits Create Business Uncertainty

The Minister may direct compliance audits of critical database operators without specified criteria, frequency limits, or procedural safeguards. This creates unpredictable compliance costs that businesses cannot reliably budget for, as audit timing and scope remain entirely at ministerial discretion. The lack of clear standards or appeal mechanisms creates barriers to market entry for smaller operators who cannot absorb unexpected audit costs, while established businesses face competitive uncertainty from potential selective enforcement. This regulatory unpredictability deters investment in Ghana's database sector by making it impossible for investors to accurately assess operational costs and regulatory exposure.