The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has cautioned the public, importers, and stakeholders in the construction and manufacturing sectors against the smuggling and unauthorized importation of Portland cement into Ghana.
In a statement issued by the Ministry’s Public Relations and Communications Unit, the sector Minister, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, (MP), stressed that the unauthorized importation of Portland cement is a clear violation of the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Portland Cement) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2240).
According to the law, any individual or company seeking to import Portland cement for commercial purposes must first obtain a valid import license issued by the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
Hon. Ofosu-Adjare disclosed that since assuming office, no import licenses for Portland cement have been granted. She therefore warned that any ongoing importation without proper authorization is illegal and will attract strict sanctions, including the seizure of goods, heavy fines, and prosecution.
To ensure full compliance, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to intensify border monitoring, conduct market inspections, and strengthen enforcement operations.
The Minister emphasized that only certified and licensed manufacturers and importers are permitted to operate within Ghana’s cement value chain, adding that such measures are essential to protect local industries, safeguard consumers, and ensure fair competition in the market.
The Ministry also urged the public to desist from engaging in or supporting unlicensed import activities and to report any suspicious movements or sales of Portland cement to the appropriate authorities.
This initiative, the statement noted, aligns with the Ministry’s broader efforts to promote industrial integrity, protect local investment, and maintain quality standards within the construction sector.
For information on import licensing and procedures, the public is encouraged to visit the Ministry’s website at www.moti.gov.gh or contact the Ministry via motichief@moti.gov.gh.
Trade Ministry Warns Against Illegal Cement Importation
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