Local cement manufacturers call on Standards Authority to investigate Chinese producers

The Cement Manufacturers Association of Ghana (CMAG), led by its Executive Secretary- Rev. Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, has appealed to the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to as a matter of urgency investigate into the quality of the cement being produced in the country by Chinese companies.

A letter dated 16th October 2018 and signed by the Executive Secretary of CMAG, Rev. Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, cited two of such companies in Tema and Ejisu – where the quality of their cement products is questionable.

The letter further confirmed that individual cement companies have sampled some of these products and the results are so alarming. “That explains why the prices of cement products by the Chinese companies are ridiculously lower in market. They are really cutting corners, and this must be checked.”

The Executive Secretary, during an interview with the media, said he was not surprised because they have evidence of several unfair trade practices from when the country started to receive imports of finished, bagged cement products from China. The valuations were manipulated and packing was also not environment-friendly.

“We will certainly not be unconcerned to witness the production of sub-standard cement in the market” he said.

Rev. Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah denied that the action of the cement association is because of competition, and said: “My position is to serve the interest of all cement companies and to ensure that best practices are adhered to”.

The Cement Manufacturers Association of Ghana is comprised of Ghacem Limited, Diamond Cement group, CIMAF Ghana Ltd. CBI Ghana Limited. Asked why these Chinese companies are not members, he said: “There have several invitations for them to be members, but the suspicion from their failure to respond is that they will be made to do the right things”.

The Association, Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah affirmed, insists on quality production; and whether you are a member or not, the integrity of buildings and structures where cement plays a vital part must be protected at all times.