The Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana, has petitioned the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry to urgently review recent increases in Free on Board (FOB) values applied to key raw materials used in cement production.

In a letter addressed to the Minister, the Chamber expressed concern over what it described as significant increases introduced without adequate stakeholder consultation.

According to the petition, the FOB value of clinker has risen from USD 40.00 to USD 136.00 per metric ton, while granulated furnace slag has increased from USD 3.00 to USD 40.00 per metric ton.

The Chamber said the new rates appear inconsistent with prevailing global market trends and are placing considerable cost pressures on local manufacturers.

It warned that the development could lead to higher production costs due to increased duties and taxes, as well as rising cement prices, which could affect construction, housing and infrastructure development.

The manufacturers therefore called for an urgent review of the FOB values and engagement with industry stakeholders to establish a fair and sustainable framework.

The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government’s industrialisation agenda and indicated its readiness for further engagement on the matter.