The Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Hinga Sandy has said in Freetown that, the cost of freight and transportation of shipment has seriously contributed for the increase of imported commodities including cement, rice among others. He explained that before COVID-19 the cost of cement per metric tonne was $20 for freight shipment, adding that today the cost of cement per metric tonne is $50 per tonne and shipment cost is $70. Also, the price of imported rice is $500 per metric tonne.

He said these have contributed to the increase of imported commodities seriously. He said lockdowns across the globe has reduced the number of shipments, noting that importers are facing challenges to secure shipment for commodities.

He noted that demand for cement has increased because of number of constructions going on in the country. Unfortunately, he said, over the years much focus has been made to industry, value addition, added that nearly ninety percent of commodities are imported. He said the abilities to address the global threat over the years has not been resolved. He disclosed that manufacturing companies are contributing 8-10% to the Gross Domestic product (GDP). He stated that two factories are producing vegetable and oil in the country which eradicated the importation of oil in the country.

He dilated that there is price control system in the country, adding that prices are been controlled at both wholesale and retail levels. He told journalists that there are ninety-two trade monitors across the country.

The Minister of Trade pointed out that the country itself is in a turbulent moment, but they should believe in the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio. He said as soon as the global variables turn down the price will reduce.

He concluded that COVID-19 has affected all over the world but it will be addressed, noting that they are going to introduce special economic zones.