Sierra Leone Government Imposes 20% Import Duty on Cement to Stabilize Prices

The Ministry of Finance has implemented a 20% import duty on all cement entering Sierra Leone, a move aimed at stabilizing the commodity’s fluctuating prices.

The new duty applies to both bagged and loose or bulk cement, as confirmed by reports from Global Times.

This decision is part of a broader government strategy to ensure a stable and affordable supply of cement within the country. The imposition of the import duty comes shortly after the government introduced a new pricing formula designed to control cement prices in the market.

Sierra Leone’s three primary cement importers – Fawaz Building Materials, Reckcem SL Limited, and Makie Cement – have affirmed that there is ample supply of cement available and have urged consumers to refrain from panic buying. Officials from the Ministry of Finance emphasized that these new measures are intended to guarantee a consistent and reasonably priced supply of cement for the public.

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It is recalled that on April 1, 2025, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, announced revised retail prices for cement across Sierra Leone. These updated prices, which factor in transportation costs, were set for both imported cement and LEOCEM 32.5R following consultations with the Sierra Leone Drivers Union and the Sierra Leone Transport Owners Association.

Under the April 1st announcement, the price for a 50kg bag of cement varies by district. Imported cement prices range from SLL 170.00 to SLL 190.00, while LEOCEM 32.5R is priced between SLL 155.00 and SLL 175.00, depending on the district.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry previously stated that these prices would be subject to review should there be changes in cost-driving factors. Both public and private sectors were urged to adhere to these updated prices to maintain market consistency and ensure equitable access to cement nationwide.