**Ghana**: A significant shortage of cement is raising alarms among retailers and customers, largely due to limited clinker supplies. With rising prices and production challenges, the ongoing situation threatens to disrupt numerous construction projects across the country.
Ghana is facing a pronounced shortage of cement, prompting retailers and customers to express escalating concerns over the dwindling availability of essential brands. This shortage has emerged as a pressing issue across the country, largely due to limited supplies of clinker, a critical component in cement production required for grinding.
Cement dealers have voiced their frustrations regarding the situation, highlighting its detrimental impact on their operations and, consequently, on their revenue streams. Many retailers have reported that they have made advance payments to suppliers, yet they continue to encounter significant delays in receiving the necessary stock. The shortage of clinker has severely hampered production levels among manufacturers, leading to substantial supply gaps nationwide.
In addition to the supply issues, cement prices have seen a notable increase, rising by GHS9 (approximately US$0.58) per bag across various brands. Industry insiders have pointed to a combination of factors for this price hike, mainly attributed to increased port charges and the difficulties associated with sourcing clinker. The African Business Insider reports that these escalating costs are compounding the challenges faced by both dealers and consumers in the construction sector.
With uncertainty surrounding when these supply issues might be resolved, many construction projects, as well as retailers, find themselves in a state of limbo. Experts anticipate that unless the supply of clinker stabilises promptly, the cement shortage will continue, potentially leading to further disruptions throughout the construction industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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