The government’s intervention in the cement market has begun yielding results, with consumers in Lilongwe now accessing imported cement at significantly reduced prices.
Thanks to government forex support and the removal of the 10 percent import surcharge, Dangote cement from Zambia is now selling at between K25,500 and K26,000 per bag—nearly K15,000 less than the K40,000 still charged for locally produced cement.
Dealer Abdul Rahman Chunala of Randera and Company, who on Monday offloaded 20 trucks carrying about 12,000 bags, confirmed the high demand for imported supplies.
“More consignments are coming in and government has promised continued support,” said Chunala.
The sharp price difference is expected to reshape the construction industry by easing costs for builders while exerting pressure on local manufacturers to adjust their prices.
