The government, through the Ministry of trade has moved to calm concerns over cement prices and quality, saying increased competition and improved macroeconomic conditions have helped drive prices lower, even as it steps up engagement with manufacturers to ensure compliance and market stability.
Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare said there has been no recent increase in cement prices, pushing back against speculation circulating in the public domain. Speaking after a meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Standards Authority and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COCMAG), she said prices had declined from late-2024 levels and were being closely monitored under existing regulations.
The 42.5 grade of cement, which sold at about GH₵118 toward the end of 2024, is now retailing at around GH₵107, while the 32.5 grade has fallen to between GH₵80 and GH₵85 from roughly GH₵113, according to the minister. She attributed the decline to stronger competition in the market and improved macroeconomic stability.
Ofosu-Adjare said the government has been working with manufacturers to promote fairness for both producers and consumers, while acknowledging that input costs such as exchange rates, energy prices and electricity tariffs continue to influence production costs. She said manufacturers had nonetheless assured the ministry of their commitment to maintaining affordable prices.
The engagement comes as authorities seek to address emerging issues in the cement industry, including pricing transparency, quality compliance and fair competition. The minister said her ministry, working with manufacturers, plans to intensify public education on cement pricing and ex-factory price declarations to improve transparency and public understanding of how prices are determined.
COCMAG Chief Executive Officer Bishop Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah described the talks as constructive and necessary to maintain order and trust in the sector. He said the chamber supports competition but opposes unfair trade practices, adding that discussions with the ministry have focused on ensuring a level playing field, adherence to existing laws and strict compliance with quality standards.
Dawson-Ahmoah said, noting that manufacturers are committed to self-regulation to ensure cement produced locally meets required specifications. He said the chamber remains ready to continue engaging with government to support a sustainable and compliant industry.
On standards enforcement, Ofosu-Adjare reaffirmed the role of the Ghana Standards Authority in ensuring that cement sold on the market meets declared specifications, assuring consumers that products labelled as 32.5 or 42.5 grades will conform strictly to those standards.
She commended cement manufacturers for their cooperation and said the government would continue engaging industry players to safeguard price stability, quality assurance and consumer protection in the sector.
