Ghana’s government has announced the temporary allocation of an additional berth at Tema Port to help clear the backlog of clinker imports and reduce demurrage costs for cement manufacturers. The move is aimed at easing congestion at the port, which has delayed the clearance of clinker and increased operational costs for cement producers.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Elizabeth Ofosu‑Adjare said the existing three berths at the Tema Port were insufficient to handle the volume of clinker imports. Speaking to the media after a closed‑door meeting with cement manufacturers, she disclosed that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has introduced measures to expedite the payment of duties to enable importers to clear their goods faster.
“I’m happy to inform you that the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, under the direction of the Minister for Transport, have agreed to give us an extra berth temporarily so that we can clear the backlog and free the manufacturers from demurrage,” she added.
She affirmed the government’s commitment to making the cost of doing business in Ghana more efficient and competitive. Meanwhile, Director of the Tema Port, Tebon Zumah, expressed optimism that the measures introduced at the port will help cement manufacturers manage the current challenges and hold off further increases in cement prices.
