The Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) has introduced a temporary GHS12 (US$1.05)/bag clinker demurrage surcharge in response to severe congestion at Tema Port and escalating vessel waiting costs.
COCMAG said waiting times for clinker vessels increased from an average of seven days in January 2026 to 30-40 days or more in August. The delays are estimated to have cost the industry US$45-50m in demurrage charges during the first eight months of 2026, with individual vessels incurring costs of US$0.8-1m.
The surcharge comprises GHS10 before tax plus GHS2 in applicable taxes and levies. COCMAG stressed that the measure is not a general cement price increase but is intended to offset exceptional costs associated with port congestion. It will remain in place until 31 December 2026, subject to monthly monitoring, with a formal review scheduled for January 2027.
According to the chamber, congestion has been exacerbated by limited facilities for clinker discharge. Only three main berths are currently available, while Berths 10 and 11 remain inaccessible to cement importers and manufacturers.
COCMAG warned that continued congestion could extend clinker shipment cycles to almost three months, potentially disrupting cement supply to the Ghanaian market.
The chamber is engaging with the Ghanaian government and Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) to reduce vessel waiting times, improve berth capacity and restore clinker vessel access to Berths 10 and 11. It said the surcharge could be removed once congestion and associated demurrage costs return to normal levels.
