The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has warned the public and importers against the smuggling and unlicensed importation of Portland cement into the country.
In a press release issued on Monday, October 21, 2025, the Ministry said anyone who imports cement without the necessary license is breaking the law and will face strict sanctions.
According to the statement, the law governing cement importation the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Portland Cement) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2240) requires that all individuals or companies seeking to import Portland cement must first obtain a valid import license from the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
The Minister, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, emphasized that since she took office, no import licenses have been issued for Portland cement. This means that any cement currently being brought into the country without authorization is illegal.
“Any ongoing importation of Portland cement without the requisite authorization is illegal and will attract strict enforcement actions, including seizure of goods, fines, and prosecution under Ghanaian law,” the statement said.
The Ministry added that it is working with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to tighten border checks, inspect markets, and ensure that only licensed and certified importers operate within the cement industry.
It urged the public to avoid buying or supporting illegally imported cement and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The Ministry said the move is part of efforts to protect consumers, promote local production, and maintain standards in Ghana’s construction sector.
By: Jacob Aggrey
