Accra: The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has issued a warning against the smuggling and unlicensed importation of Portland cement, citing it as a threat to both industry and public safety. The Ministry announced a crackdown on unauthorized trade activities, emphasizing that violators would face strict enforcement measures including the seizure of goods, imposition of fines, and potential prosecution under Ghanaian law.

According to Ghana News Agency, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, reiterated the Ministry’s zero-tolerance policy towards non-compliance with the Export and Import Restrictions on Importation of Portland Cement Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2240). The Ministry highlighted that no import licenses for Portland cement have been issued since the Minister took office, meaning that any current importation without the necessary license is illegal and will be subject to punitive actions.

To effectively enforce the regulations, the Ministry has enhanced collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). This joint effort aims to strengthen border monitoring, conduct market inspections, and intensify enforcement across the cement value chain to create a comprehensive barrier against illegal cement trade.

The Ministry’s goal is to ensure that only certified and licensed importers and manufacturers are allowed to operate within the country, thereby safeguarding the quality and integrity of Ghana’s construction sector. The Ministry also called on the public and stakeholders in the construction and manufacturing sectors to support this initiative by refraining from unlicensed import activities and reporting any suspicious importation of Portland cement to the relevant authorities.