The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, met with leaders from the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COCMAG) to tackle key issues in the cement sector, focusing on stability, fairness, and compliance.
Addressing rumours of rising prices, the Minister firmly stated there has been no cement price increase. She highlighted the government’s close collaboration with manufacturers under existing regulations to balance the interests of producers and consumers.
Ofosu-Adjare noted that prices peaked at the end of 2024, with 42.5-grade cement at about GH₵118 and 32.5-grade at GH₵113. They have since dropped due to heightened competition and better economic conditions—now, 42.5-grade sells for around GH₵107, and 32.5-grade ranges from GH₵80 to GH₵85.
While acknowledging pressures like exchange rates, energy costs, and electricity tariffs, she said manufacturers have pledged to keep prices affordable. The Ministry plans to ramp up public education on pricing and ex-factory declarations for greater transparency.
On quality, the GSA will enforce strict adherence to labelled standards, ensuring 32.5- and 42.5-grade cement meets specifications. The Minister praised COCMAG’s cooperation and commitment to the law, vowing ongoing engagement for price stability and consumer protection.
COCMAG’s CEO, Bishop Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah lauded the minister’s leadership and the productive partnership. He emphasized the Chamber’s support for fair competition, opposition to unfair practices, and focus on a level playing field, legal compliance, and quality.
Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah reaffirmed COCMAG’s dedication to self-regulation and collaboration with the government to build a sustainable cement industry.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com