The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed serious concern over the country’s ongoing cement shortage, warning that persistent supply disruptions are hurting consumers, businesses and the wider economy.

In a statement issued on Monday (15 December), the Chamber described cement as a strategic commodity critical to the construction sector — the country’s largest contributor to industrial output — with knock-on effects on infrastructure development, employment and economic stability.

“The continuous disruption of cement supply affects prices and distribution, posing significant risks to economic stability and consumer confidence in public policy,” the GCCI said.

Following consultations with key stakeholders, the Chamber identified several factors driving the crisis, including infrastructural constraints at the Port of Banjul, high transport charges imposed by truck owners, and retailers increasing margins, leading to inflated prices for consumers.

While welcoming government efforts to ease shortages by allowing cement imports by land through Special Import Certificate (SIC) holders, the GCCI said more sustainable solutions are needed to prevent recurring crises.

It recommended accelerating port infrastructure development, liberalising the cement market on reciprocal terms with Senegal, enforcing transport and logistics tariffs, and regulating retailer margins to curb excessive pricing.

“As the voice of the Gambian business community, we reaffirm our commitment to a competitive, predictable and fair market environment,” the statement said, calling for stronger regulatory transparency and sustained dialogue with industry players.

The Chamber urged continued collaboration between government and the private sector to stabilise cement supply and restore confidence in the market.