By: Aminata Sesay
The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Trade and Industry, has unveiled a new pricing policy for cement in response to growing public concerns over the escalating cost of this essential building material. The move follows widespread calls for government intervention to regulate cement prices and ensure affordability for consumers, while preventing market exploitation.
In collaboration with the Office of the Chief Minister and other key government agencies, the Ministry held consultations with major cement importers and manufacturers on Thursday, March 27, 2025. The discussions aimed to address the rising cement prices and establish a transparent pricing formula similar to those used for other key commodities such as rice and petroleum products.
As part of the new measures, the Ministry of Trade and Industry has introduced the following regulated cement prices for the Western Area:
Imported Cement:
Wholesale Price: Le150.00 per bag
Retail Price: Le170.00 per bag
Local Cement (32.5R)
Wholesale Price: Le135.00 per bag
Retail Price: Le155.00 per bag
These prices are effective immediately and are expected to stabilize the market by ensuring fair competition and preventing arbitrary price hikes by wholesalers and retailers. The government emphasized that the aim is to balance maintaining business viability for cement importers and manufacturers while protecting consumers from exploitative pricing.
In its public notice, the Ministry acknowledged that the rising cost of cement is not an isolated issue but part of a global trend. Increased reconstruction activities in regions such as the Middle East, Turkey, and Eastern Europe have driven up global demand for cement, causing price hikes worldwide. The Ministry stressed that the local market is vulnerable to these international dynamics, making government intervention necessary to prevent excessive price increases.
“The Ministry, with support from the Office of the Chief Minister and other government agencies, engaged major importers and manufacturers to rationalize market prices and establish a pricing formula akin to that of rice and petroleum products,” the notice explained. This collaborative approach aims to ensure transparency and predictability in the cement market.
While the new pricing structure applies to the Western Area, the Ministry stated that cement prices for provincial regions will be announced later. This delay is due to ongoing negotiations with the Ministry of Transport and Aviation to assess transportation costs. These discussions will determine fair pricing that accounts for the logistical challenges of delivering cement to remote areas without imposing undue burdens on consumers.
The Ministry assured the public that once these negotiations are completed, a comprehensive pricing framework for the provinces will be communicated.
To ensure continued affordability and availability, the Ministry confirmed that the pricing formula will undergo periodic reviews. These reviews will be conducted in collaboration with major cement producers, importers, and relevant government agencies. The aim is to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining a balance between commercial interests and consumer welfare.
“The public is assured of the government’s continued commitment to ensuring a sustained supply of cement at an affordable and predictable price,” the Ministry emphasized.
This intervention is part of the government’s broader commitment to protecting consumers and promoting economic stability. Cement is a vital material for infrastructure development, and price volatility can have far-reaching impacts on both public and private construction projects. By establishing a clear pricing framework, the government aims to facilitate ongoing development while shielding citizens from the adverse effects of global market fluctuations.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry urged all stakeholders, including importers, manufacturers, and retailers, to strictly adhere to the new pricing guidelines. Consumers are encouraged to report any violations or price manipulation to the relevant authorities for swift action.
As Sierra Leone continues to navigate global economic challenges, the government’s proactive approach to regulating essential commodities like cement is seen as a critical step in ensuring long-term economic resilience and social equity.