The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has issued a warning to the general public, importers, and stakeholders within the construction and manufacturing sectors against the unauthorized importation of Portland cement into the country.
According to a statement released on Tuesday, October 21, the caution forms part of efforts to enforce the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Portland Cement) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2240), which requires all individuals or entities seeking to import Portland cement for commercial purposes to obtain a valid import license from the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
The Minister, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare emphasized that no import licenses for Portland cement have been issued since she assumed office.
She therefore cautioned that any ongoing importation of the product without proper authorization is illegal and will attract strict enforcement actions including seizure of goods, imposition of fines, and prosecution under Ghanaian law.
To ensure compliance, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to strengthen border monitoring, intensify market inspections, and enforce existing regulations.
The Ministry emphasized that only certified and licensed manufacturers and importers are permitted to operate within the cement value chain.
It further urged the public to refrain from participating in or supporting unlicensed import activities and to promptly report any suspicious importation of Portland cement to the appropriate authorities.
The Ministry explained that the initiative is part of a broader effort to protect consumers, support local industry, and uphold the integrity of Ghana’s construction sector.
