By: Haddy Touray
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment (MoTIE) has assured the public and all stakeholders that Portland cement is now readily available in The Gambia, and the market has returned to a stable state after recent disruptions.
According to MoTIE, the temporary shortages resulted from readjustments and renegotiations of international supply contracts following the imposition of new U.S. tariffs. These issues have since been resolved, and cement supply chains have normalized.
MoTIE confirmed that current national stocks are strong: Jah Multi Industries holds 54,457 metric tons (MT), Salam Cement has 59,000 MT, and Gacem maintains 21,000 MT. Confirming that shipments are scheduled to arrive this June. Jah Multi Industries expects shipments of 34,850 MT on June 15, 44,150 MT on June 19, and 38,600 MT on June 22. Gacem consignments of 15,000 MT each are set for June 14 and June 16, while Salam Cement anticipates 38,000 MT arriving on June 30.
MoTIE stated that with these stocks and incoming deliveries, the Government is confident cement supply will meet market demand without disruption. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining supply stability, promoting fair pricing, and supporting the successful implementation of construction and infrastructure projects nationwide.
Current factory prices per bag are: Jah Multi Industries – GMD 390 (42.5R), Salam Cement – GMD 330 (32.5R), and Gacem – GMD 420 (42.5R).
MoTIE urged the public to support local cement industries as part of the national industrialization drive, emphasizing that boosting domestic production is essential for sustainable supply, job creation, reducing import dependence, and strengthening the economy.
The Ministry emphasized that Industrialization requires collective commitment, which leads to national development.
