GCCI Issues Statement on Ongoing Cement Crisis

The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry as the premier representative institution of the private sector, is deeply concerned about the persistent ongoing cement crisis affecting consumers, businesses, and the broader national economy. Cement is a strategic commodity underpinning the construction sector which is the largest contributor to the industrial output, impacting infrastructural development, industrial production and employment. Such continuous disruption in stable supply impacts prices and distribution, therefore posing significant risk to economic stability and consumer confidence in public policy.

Having conducted an extensive consultation with key stakeholders, the Chamber has realized the following challenges in the cement industry impacting supply and prices:

Infrastructural challenges at Banjul Ports.
High transport tariffs imposed by truck owners transporting cement orders.
Retailers’ pursuit of higher margins leading to higher final consumer prices.

While we acknowledge government’s efforts to mitigate the current challenges by allowing cement import via land by SIC-Holders, we are of the belief that the following recommendations will provide a sustainable solution to these recurring challenges:

Accelerate infrastructural development at Banjul Ports
Liberalize the cement market on reciprocal terms with Senegal
Implement and enforce transport and logistics fares
Regulate retailer margins to avoid exorbitant prices.

As the voice of the Gambian business community, we affirm our commitment to supporting a competitive, predictable, and fair market environment, regulatory transparency and the implementation monitoring of industrial policy. We encourage sustained dialogue with key market players to ensure a smooth operation of the industry.

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 The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry as the premier representative institution of the private sector, is deeply concerned about the persistent ongoing cement crisis affecting consumers, businesses, and the broader national economy. Cement is a strategic commodity underpinning the construction sector which is the largest contributor to the industrial output, impacting infrastructural development, industrial The Fatu Network