Ghana: Additional dock at Tema to prevent further cement price increases

The Ghanaian government has secured a temporary additional dock at the Tema port to expedite the unloading of clinker and mitigate the extra costs that threaten to impact cement prices. This decision was made following an emergency meeting and a port visit on Friday, September 11, 2026.

The Cement Manufacturers Association of Ghana (COCMAG) announced earlier this month a temporary surcharge of 12 cedis per bag, of which 10 cedis is before tax, to cover part of the demurrage costs associated with delays of ships carrying clinker. According to the professional organization, the average waiting time has increased from about seven days in January to 30 days or more in August.

COCMAG estimates that the demurrage costs borne by the entire sector have reached between 45 and 50 million dollars in the first eight months of 2026. The association presents the surcharge as a temporary measure, set to last until December 31 and subject to monthly review.

However, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) disputes the notion that port congestion alone can explain the price increase. The authority believes that the cost of clinker also depends on ship scheduling, road transport capacity, unloading speed, and other commercial factors.

An emergency measure at the Tema port

The additional dock is expected to help clear the backlog of clinker ships more quickly. The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, and the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, have urged the GPHA and other stakeholders to reduce processing and cargo evacuation times.

The GPHA claims to have already completed dredging work in the bulk cargo area. Berths 13 and 14 now offer depths suitable for accommodating larger vessels, a development that, according to the port authority, should enhance economies of scale for clinker importers.

The authority also emphasizes that the berths designated for cement and clinker must remain separate from operations related to food products for safety and hygiene reasons. It is simultaneously encouraging cement manufacturers to strengthen their land transport capabilities so that cargo can leave the docks more quickly after unloading.

The Ghanaian Ministry of Transport had already initiated discussions with Tema operators on September 7 to expedite customs procedures and reduce congestion. The new temporary dock adds to these measures as the port’s peak activity period is expected to continue until October.