Trade and Industry Minister K.T Hammond is anticipated to present to Parliament the regulatory measure aimed at controlling cement prices after representatives of cement manufacturers skipped a stakeholder meeting on Monday, July 1, 2024.
Concerns have arisen regarding the escalating prices of cement, with a sack retailing at an average of GH¢105. To curb the increase, the government initiated procedures to regulate prices through a legislative instrument.
A session was arranged between the Trade and Industry Minister and key figures in the cement industry to deliberate on the LI, but the latter abstained.
Delegates from major cement producers like GHACEM, Dangote, CBI, Cimaf, and Diamond Cement chose not to participate in the stakeholder meeting.
The decision to boycott was triggered by the unexpected presence of the media at the Ministry’s premises.
The representatives noted that the meeting was supposed to be private. They expressed surprise and discontent over the minister’s decision to invite the media without prior notification, leading to their withdrawal from the session.
Despite the boycott, KT Hammond insisted on involving the media in the meeting. He proceeded to address the journalists, underscoring his dedication to safeguarding the state’s interests.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has denounced the LI as evidence of the Akufo-Addo-led government’s harsh treatment of Ghanaians.
Consumer Protection Organization, Cuts International, also condemned the LI and urged Parliament to reject it when it is presented.
3.5