Trade Minister warns against illegal cement imports
The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has issued a stern warning to individuals and companies engaged in the illegal importation of cement, declaring that no import licences have been issued since she assumed office.
Speaking during a meeting with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COGMAG) in Accra, the Minister expressed deep concern over the influx of unlicensed cement products in the Ghanaian market, describing the trend as a direct threat to both consumer safety and the survival of domestic manufacturers.
“Since I took office, no licence has been granted for the importation of cement into this country. Anyone currently importing cement is doing so illegally and must stop immediately,” she stated.
The meeting focused on pressing industry issues including product quality, pricing, smuggling, and compliance.
Mrs Ofosu-Adjare reiterated that although Ghana operates a free-market economy, all entities within the cement value chain are required by law to secure proper authorisation to trade.
She explained that maintaining a regulated licensing regime is essential to ensuring fair competition, product integrity, and investor confidence.
“Regulation is not about stifling business, it is about protecting consumers, ensuring standards, and promoting accountability,” she indicated.
The Minister commended the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for its continuous efforts in clamping down on cement smuggling along the country’s borders, but called for heightened vigilance and stronger inter-agency collaboration.
“I want the Ghanaian brand to adhere to standards in order to obtain the moral right in curbing invaders,” she remarked.
Mrs Ofosu-Adjare also directed the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to intensify market surveillance and enforce compliance measures across the supply chain.
She emphasised that only licensed manufacturers and importers should operate, underscoring that quality assurance and fair competition are indispensable for sustaining investor trust and supporting Ghana’s industrialisation drive.
At the meeting, COGMAG Chairman, Frederic Albrecht, highlighted that cement prices in Ghana had seen a notable decline due to the recent stability of the local currency.
“In July 2025, on average, the price of cement witnessed a 20 per cent reduction, largely because of the stability of the cedi,” he explained.
Mr Albrecht added that COGMAG continues to monitor market conditions closely and advised consumers to remain cautious against counterfeit cement products, urging buyers to verify authenticity before purchase to ensure value for money and structural safety.
In September, Ofosu-Adjare inaugurated a Cement Monitoring Committee to tighten oversight, curb the importation of substandard products, and strengthen regulatory enforcement. The initiative, she said, demonstrates government’s commitment to creating a resilient, competitive, and quality-driven cement industry that supports national development.
