Cement crisis: Manufacturers given 7 days to act

DODOMA: THE government has given cement manufacturers seven days to submit proposals on how to tackle shortages and high prices of cement, as it moves to find a lasting solution to growing concerns over the essential construction material.

The directive was issued by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Amb. Waziri Salum, during a meeting with cement manufacturers in Dodoma to examine the factors behind the shortage and rising prices.

Amb. Salum said the government wanted a sustainable solution that would keep cement available at prices that balance the interests of manufacturers, traders and consumers.

He directed manufacturers to use the seven-day period to identify challenges affecting cement production, prices and availability, and submit practical recommendations to address them.

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“Use the seven days to assess the challenges affecting cement prices and availability in the market and submit proposals that could help reduce or control price increases and improve availability,” he said.

The meeting brought together key institutions involved in regulating the cement industry, competition, standards and trade, including the Fair Competition Commission (FCC), Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and TanTrade, as well as directors from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Amb. Salum said the government’s intervention was aimed at creating a favourable business environment while ensuring consumers could access essential products at reasonable prices.

After receiving the proposals, the government is expected to assess the manufacturers’ recommendations and determine further measures to improve cement supply and contain prices across the country.