Ghana’s government is considering allocating additional berths at Tema Port to accelerate clinker unloading and reduce demurrage costs incurred by cement producers.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe and Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare are expected to inspect the port and identify further space for clinker vessels. Cement manufacturers currently have access to two allocated berths but have requested additional capacity as rising cargo volumes intensify competition for port space.
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority has also been instructed to make an emergency acquisition of two cranes to accelerate vessel loading and unloading and help relieve congestion.
As previously reported by CemNet, the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana introduced a temporary GHS12 (US$1.05)/bag clinker demurrage surcharge after vessel waiting times rose from around seven days in January to 30–40 days or more in August 2026.
The chamber estimated that congestion cost cement producers US$45–50m in demurrage during the first eight months of the year. It said the surcharge could be removed once waiting times and associated costs return to normal levels.
