Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare Emphasizes Legal Requirements to Protect Consumers and Local Industry
The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has issued a strong warning to the general public, importers, and all stakeholders in the construction and manufacturing sectors against the unauthorized importation of Portland cement into Ghana. This firm stance is a direct effort to enforce existing regulations and safeguard the integrity of the domestic cement market.
In an official statement, the Ministry cited the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Portland Cement) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2240). This legal instrument mandates that any individual or entity seeking to import Portland cement for commercial purposes must first secure a valid import license from the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
Zero Tolerance for Illegal Imports
The sector Minister, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare (MP), clarified the Ministry’s current policy, stating that no import licenses have been granted since she assumed office. This means that any ongoing importation of Portland cement for commercial use is, by definition, illegal.
The Minister issued a stern warning that importation without due authorization will face strict enforcement actions. These consequences will include the seizure of the goods, the imposition of heavy fines, and possible prosecution in accordance with Ghanaian law. This definitive action is aimed at deterring parallel market activity and ensuring that only certified materials enter the construction value chain.
Enhanced Monitoring and Regulatory Compliance
To guarantee compliance, the Ministry confirmed it is working closely with key regulatory bodies. Specifically, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) will collaborate to strengthen border monitoring, conduct routine market inspections, and intensify enforcement efforts nationwide.
The Ministry’s statement stressed that only companies that are certified and licensed will be permitted to operate within Ghana’s cement value chain. This regulatory clampdown is part of a broader strategy with three main objectives:
Consumer Protection: Ensuring the quality and safety of building materials used in the country.
Support for Local Industry: Shielding local cement manufacturers from unfair competition from unlicensed foreign imports.
Upholding Sector Integrity: Maintaining standards and legality within Ghana's vital construction sector.
The Ministry concluded by urging the public to actively support the initiative by refraining from engaging with unlicensed importers and to report any suspicious import activities of Portland cement to the appropriate authorities.