The Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda in the Eastern Region, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has raised concerns over a possible GH¢12 increase in the price of a 50kg bag of cement.
The former Deputy Health Minister, in a post on Facebook, questioned whether consumers should expect another price adjustment.
“Cement prices to rise by 12 Cedis per bag?”
His comments come amid a GH¢12 surcharge introduced by the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COCMAG), reportedly to offset additional costs arising from prolonged clinker vessel delays and demurrage at the Tema Port.
The surcharge comprises GH¢10 before tax and GH¢2 in applicable taxes and levies.
Cement prices currently vary by brand, grade and location, with a 50kg bag generally selling between GH¢90 and GH¢130.
Grade 32.5 products are typically priced between GH¢90 and GH¢105, while Grade 42.5 cement can range from GH¢110 to GH¢130 in some markets.
The manufacturers have attributed the additional cost to congestion at the Tema Port, which has increased vessel waiting times significantly.
Industry figures indicate that the waiting period for clinker vessels rose from about seven days in January 2026 to more than 30–40 days by August.
The delays have reportedly generated between US$45 million and US$50 million in demurrage costs for cement manufacturers during the first eight months of the year.
COCMAG has said the surcharge is temporary and is expected to remain in effect until December 31, 2026, with monthly reviews.
Any further increase in cement prices could raise construction costs for developers, homeowners and prospective house owners, potentially forcing them to revise project budgets.
The high cost of cement has also affected demand, with some consumers reportedly postponing purchases or reducing the quantities they buy.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport, in collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has announced plans to construct additional berths to improve port capacity and ease congestion.
If implemented effectively, the measures could reduce vessel delays and help lower some of the costs currently being passed on to consumers.
Mr. Acquah’s warning has therefore heightened concerns over the potential impact of cement price increases on Ghana’s already expensive construction sector.
By 1960news.com
