The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has announced a joint effort with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to clamp down on the smuggling and unlicensed importation of Portland cement into the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Ministry cautioned importers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the construction and manufacturing sectors against importing Portland cement without proper authorization.
It emphasized that such activities violate Ghana’s import regulations and will attract strict sanctions, including seizure of goods, imposition of fines, and prosecution.
According to the statement, the Ministry has not granted any new import licenses for Portland cement since Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare assumed office. It therefore warned that all ongoing importation of cement without a valid license is illegal and subject to enforcement action.
“In line with the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Portland Cement) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2240), all individuals or entities seeking to import Portland cement for commercial purposes are required to obtain a valid import license issued by the Minister,” the statement read.
The Ministry further indicated that it is working closely with the GRA and GSA to strengthen border monitoring, conduct market inspections, and intensify enforcement measures to ensure only certified and licensed importers operate within the cement value chain.
Members of the public were also urged to refrain from supporting unlicensed import activities and to report any suspicious importation of Portland cement to the relevant authorities.
The Ministry assured that this initiative is part of its broader commitment to protect consumers, support local industry, and uphold the integrity of Ghana’s construction sector.
