Cement pricing regulation: Imperative for transparency and fairness

The cement industry plays a vital role in the construction sector, and its pricing significantly impacts the economy. However, the industry has faced numerous allegations of collusion, price manipulation and cartelisation worldwide. 

To address these concerns, governments and industry bodies have implemented regulations and voluntary codes to ensure transparency in cement pricing. In the UK, Spain, Germany and France, cement producers are required to disclose pricing information and cost structures periodically.

 They typically include detailed breakdowns of raw material costs, production costs, transportation costs and pricing structures. Such transparency builds trust, fairness and innovation, reducing unjustified price volatility.

Examples abound of collusion and price manipulation in the cement industry in some parts of the world. In India, the Competition Commission of India imposed fines on several major cement companies for price fixing. In the US, the Federal Trade Commission has intervened in cases of suspected collusion to keep prices artificially high.

In Canada, the Competition Bureau has investigated and prosecuted cement companies found guilty of collusion. The Nigerian Competition Authority has also imposed penalties on companies manipulating prices.

These instances highlight the need for regulatory bodies to ensure transparency and fairness in cement pricing in every market and our country Ghana must not be an exception.

The local industry must adopt codes of conduct for clear pricing disclosures and fair marketing practices. Government must also establish and enforce robust regulations to prevent cartelisation and price manipulation.

Currently, the call for transparency in cement pricing by the government, supported by stakeholders is a welcome development. The proposed regulation seeking to compel manufacturers to declare their price build-up and ex-factory prices is a step in the right direction.

The industry's support for transparency and the government's assurance that the legislation aims to promote transparency and not introduce price controls are reassuring.

The Daily Graphic is of the belief that transparency in cement pricing is crucial for safeguarding consumer interests, ensuring fair market practices and fostering sustainable growth in the industry.

The attribution of price increases to exchange rate volatilities, levies and taxes, as well as the depreciation of the cedi, highlights the need for a collaborative approach to address the underlying causes of price escalation.

On this premise, we urge the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Association of Ghana to find effective ways to engage the government for all their concerns on the proposed Legislative Instrument to be addressed.

For us, the Ghana Standards Authority's emphasis on transparency in cement pricing as crucial for consumer interests, fair market practices, and sustainable growth in the industry is laudable.

 The proposed legislation's requirement for cement manufacturers to publish their ex-factory prices monthly is a welcome move that will promote transparency and prevent arbitrary price hikes by retailers.

The call for transparency in cement pricing is a step in the right direction. The industry, government and stakeholders must work together to ensure that the proposed legislation promotes transparency, fairness and sustainability in the cement industry.

Transparency in cement pricing is crucial for safeguarding consumer interests, ensuring fair market practices and fostering sustainable growth in the industry. It is time for the cement industry to embrace transparency and fairness, ensuring a healthier, more competitive and sustainable construction industry worldwide.

The benefits of transparency in cement pricing extend beyond consumer protection. It also promotes fair competition among manufacturers, encouraging innovation and efficiency.

When prices are transparent, manufacturers are incentivised to optimise their production processes, reduce costs and improve product quality. This leads to a more competitive industry, driving economic growth and development.

Moreover, transparency in cement pricing has a positive impact on the environment. When manufacturers are held accountable for their pricing practices, they are more likely to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint.

This is critical in the cement industry, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting transparency and sustainability, we can reduce the industry's environmental impact and create a more sustainable future.