The Trade Minister, K.T. Hammond, has sparked debates in Parliament with a proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I) aimed at regulating the price of cement, which has now been laid for consideration.

Initially intended to enforce price controls on cement, the L.I. has undergone amendments following criticisms from various stakeholders, including the Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza.

Agbodza expressed cautious approval after clarifying that the revised L.I. focuses on requiring cement manufacturers to regularly report pricing decisions to the government rather than imposing direct price controls.

"We (Minority) are okay to support it. The price control element has been taken out. It is now about price reporting to the committee," Agbodza stated during deliberations on the floor of Parliament.

The Minority's acceptance of the revised L.I. hinges on its new provisions, which they believe mitigate concerns about government overreach into market pricing dynamics.

Meanwhile, tensions have risen among cement manufacturers, prompting discussions about seeking intervention from the Economic Management Team (EMT).

Dr. Dawson Amoah, President of the Cement Manufacturers Association, emphasized the significance of the issue for both producers and consumers.

"We're exploring options beyond the Ministry of Trade and Industry, including engaging with the Economic Management Team," Dr. Amoah disclosed, highlighting ongoing efforts to address industry concerns during the 21-day period the L.I. is before Parliament.

The proposal has stirred broader discussions about government intervention in pricing policies and its implications for market dynamics and consumer affordability.

Stakeholders await further developments as Parliament deliberates on the future of cement pricing regulations in Ghana.

As the debate unfolds, both proponents and critics of the L.I. are expected to present their arguments, shaping the final decision on whether the amended instrument will become law or face annulment by Parliament.