President John Dramani Mahama has announced a crackdown on substandard cement and a ban on scrap exports to protect local manufacturers and strengthen Ghana’s industrial sector.
Speaking at the Presidential Dialogue with the Private Sector at Kempinski in Accra on 24th February 2026, President Mahama said the government will strictly enforce LI 2491 in the cement industry, promote local clinker and other component production, and address port discharge and logistical challenges affecting the sector.
He warned that the re-bagging and sale of inferior cement would no longer be tolerated, describing such practices as a threat to infrastructure, public safety, and the integrity of local manufacturing.
In the iron and steel sector, the President announced a ban on the export of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap materials to ensure that raw materials are available for local production.
He further emphasized strict border enforcement against smuggled steel, VAT compliance across scrap supply chains, and tax exemptions on plants and machinery to encourage domestic investment. An integrated value chain strategy will guide the development of the sector.
“These measures are designed to protect Ghanaian industries, improve product quality, and build a competitive, self-reliant manufacturing base,” President Mahama said.
The reforms form part of the government’s broader industrialization agenda, aimed at boosting production, creating jobs, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.
