The government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Trade and Industry, has announced a new pricing formula for cement, aimed at stabilizing the market and addressing public concerns over recent price hikes.

The decision follows extensive consultations with major cement importers and manufacturers on Thursday, March 27th, 2025.

The Ministry acknowledged the global surge in cement prices, attributing it to significant reconstruction efforts in the Middle East, Turkey, and Eastern Europe. This global trend, coupled with local market dynamics, led to a sharp increase in cement prices within Sierra Leone, sparking widespread public dissatisfaction.

In response, the government, with support from the Office of the Chief Minister and other relevant agencies, convened a meeting with key industry players to negotiate and establish a transparent pricing mechanism. The result is a fixed pricing formula, similar to those already in place for rice and petroleum products.

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The newly agreed-upon prices for the Western Area are as follows:

Imported Cement:
Wholesale Price: Le 150.00
Retail Price: Le 170.00

Locally Produced Cement (32.5R):
Wholesale Price: Le 135.00
Retail Price: Le 155.00

The Ministry has stated that prices for cement in the provinces will be announced shortly, pending negotiations with transportation bodies, coordinated by the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, to determine fair transportation costs.

A key aspect of this intervention is the commitment to periodic reviews of the pricing formula, ensuring that it remains relevant and fair to both consumers and industry stakeholders. The government has reassured the public of its dedication to maintaining a consistent supply of cement at affordable and predictable prices.