The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, says that since taking office as Minister for the sector, she has not issued a single licence for the importation of cement into Ghana.
The Minister bemoaned the activities of some individuals and companies engaged in the illegal importation of cement into the Ghanaian market and stressed that, as a matter of urgency and necessity, such illegalities must cease.
She said Ghana is a free economy, and it requires manufacturers to obtain a valid licence to trade in the cement value chain, as this will guide their operations and help regulate the industry.
The Minister stated this at a meeting with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COGMAG) in Accra on Wednesday, 8th October 2025.
The follow-up meeting with the Minister delved into issues such as the quality of cement produced, pricing, smuggling, and importation.
Madam Ofosu-Adjare also commended the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for its efforts so far in controlling the smuggling of cement at the borders and urged the Authority to work assiduously in curbing the menace of smuggling and illegal importation.
“I want the Ghanaian brand to adhere to standards in order to obtain the moral right in curbing invaders,” she stated.
She charged the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to ensure compliance and to make sure that only licensed manufacturers and importers operate in the market, emphasising the importance of quality control and fair competition.
The Chairman of COGMAG, Frederic Albrecht, said that in July 2025, on average, the price of cement witnessed a 20% reduction due to the stability of the cedi.
He added that COGMAG is still monitoring the situation to take further steps and further advised customers to check for fake cement products before purchase to guarantee value for money.
