Minister of Trade and Industry Vitumbiko Mumba has reaffirmed government’s commitment to significantly reducing cement prices in Malawi.
Speaking at a media briefing at Capital Hotel in Lilongwe on Wednesday night, Mumba said rising cement costs are hurting the construction sector and burdening Malawians. He described the cement industry as a strategic driver of economic growth, warranting direct government intervention to stabilise prices.
Mumba announced that government has struck deals with major Zambian cement producers to supply Malawi with 300 tonnes of 32.5N Portland cement per day at $105 per tonne $9 cheaper than before. Similar discussions with Sinoma Company Ltd resulted in offers of $105 per tonne for 32.5N cement and $118 per tonne for 42.5N, representing a $7 per tonne reduction.
To further lower prices, government has scrapped the 10 percent surcharge on imported cement. Mumba revealed that 12,000 bags will arrive this week, ensuring steady supply at affordable rates.
He also warned traders against exploiting shortages to inflate prices, stressing that the administration will take action against unfair pricing.
