GH₵12 addition to cement price: GPHA clarifies attribution to port congestion

The Ghana Ports & Harbours Authority (GPHA) has clarified that port congestion is not the sole reason for the recent GH₵12 increase in cement prices. The GPHA explained that several operational and commercial factors contribute to the cost of transporting clinker and cement through the Port of Tema. In a statement released on September 10, 2026, the authority acknowledged a press release by the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), which had attributed the price hike to congestion at the Port of Tema.

The GPHA emphasized its responsibility to serve all port users and ensure safe and hygienic operations, particularly separating food-related cargo such as rice and wheat from cement and clinker. They highlighted the importance of strategic dredging to accommodate larger vessels and optimize berth usage. The recent dredging project has resulted in deeper berths at Berth 13 (14 meters) and Berth 14 (12 meters), allowing for larger vessels and economies of scale.

Furthermore, the GPHA noted that berths 3, 12, 13, and 14 have been designated for common-user cement and clinker operations, shared by multiple cement companies. The authority also mentioned the availability of the Port of Takoradi as an alternative port within Ghana's maritime logistics network. To address the issue of delayed discharge operations due to truck inadequacy or traffic congestion, the GPHA encouraged cement companies to invest in modern handling systems, which would enhance discharge rates, reduce vessel turnaround times, and optimize berth utilization.

The GPHA stressed that port efficiency is a shared responsibility, involving proper vessel planning, trucking capacity, discharge efficiency, modern handling technology, and timely cargo evacuation. They urged stakeholders and the public to consider the entire logistics and supply chain, rather than attributing cement price increases solely to port congestion.