As Ghana prepares to launch a major national infrastructure programme dubbed the ‘Big Push, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, has issued a cautious warning to cement producers and dealers who continue to maintain what he called exploitative prices despite the country’s recent economic improvements.
Cement prices
Speaking in an interview in Parliament just before the Finance Minister presented the Mid-Year Budget Review, he criticised producers and retailers for refusing to pass on the benefits of a stabilised economy to consumers. While prices of many commodities have begun to fall, cement remains stubbornly high — a situation Agbodza says will not be tolerated as Ghana moves into an era of aggressive public infrastructure development.
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“Cement dealers are refusing to pass on the gains to buyers. Whilst every other commodity
Agbodza dismissed ongoing claims from industry players that the cost of inputs, particularly imported materials, continues to drive up prices. He noted that economic conditions have shifted significantly, with the Ghanaian cedi gaining relative strength and inflation easing.
“In the past, they said it was because inputs were imported. But today, the economy has stabilised, the cedi is relatively stronger, and other goods have adjusted their prices downward. Cement has not,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that continued inflated pricing affects not only consumers but also the cost of government-funded infrastructure projects, burdening the Ghanaian taxpayer.
Affordability
Agbodza revealed that the government is about to roll out an ambitious road infrastructure programme that will require large quantities of cement. He cautioned that suppliers who maintain inflated prices will be bypassed in favour of those who reflect fair pricing.
“We will not sit down and allow this rent-seeking behaviour to continue. We can direct that cement should not be sourced from suppliers who aren’t ready to reduce their prices,” he warned.
While he acknowledged that his ministry lacks the legal mandate to regulate prices, Agbodza said the government’s purchasing decisions could send a powerful message to the market.
Asked if importation might be considered, the Minister responded that while the government prefers to support local producers, high domestic prices could force both government and private sector actors to consider alternatives.
“If Ghanaian producers make themselves the most expensive, what do you expect the ordinary person to do? They’ll go for the cheaper option,” he stated frankly.
He cited a reasonable price point of GH¢95 per bag, in contrast to current prices around GH¢120, which he described as unjustifiable.
Agbodza clarified that his comments do not constitute an official government policy, but they reflect a clear shift in attitude within the Ministry of Roads and Highways.
He stressed, “This is not a fight. It’s a call for fairness. We’ve all made sacrifices to stabilise this economy. Cement dealers must do the same.”