Accra: The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has urged cement manufacturers in Ghana to increase the use of locally available raw materials to reduce reliance on imported clinker and promote sustainable cement production. Speaking at INTERCEM Africa 2026 in Accra, the minister emphasized the importance of innovation for the future of Ghana's cement industry. She stressed the need to develop cost-effective production systems that utilize the country's natural resources efficiently. According to Ghana Web, the minister highlighted advancements in Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3), pointing out the efforts of CBI Ghana and Ghacem as examples of how the industry can reduce clinker consumption while maintaining production efficiency. She noted that Ghana's industrialisation drive is expected to increase demand for cement, making it crucial to adopt environmentally sustainable production methods and strengthen import substitution efforts. INTERCEM Africa 2026, organised in partnership with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), brought together delegates from about 40 countries and more than 100 companies to discuss the future of cement production. Chairman of COCMAG and Chief Executive Officer of CBI Ghana, Frederic Albrecht, acknowledged that Ghana remains heavily dependent on imported clinker due to a lack of suitable limestone deposits for clinker production. He cited rising fuel prices, port congestion, and global supply chain disruptions as factors driving up the cost of clinker imports, underscoring the need for alternative local materials to ensure the industry's sustainability and competitiveness. Albrecht stated that products developed with reduced clinker content demonstrate how Ghana can leverage local resources to lower production costs and improve efficiency. Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of COCMAG, Bishop Dr George Dawson-Ahmoah, explained that the conference aimed to promote a sustainable cement industry capable of supporting economic growth through environmentally friendly production methods. He noted that Ghana is gradually reducing its dependence on clinker by using clay and other local materials, marking an important step towards more sustainable and cost-effective cement production. The conference featured discussions on LC3 technology, global cement market trends, net-zero transition strategies, shipping and port challenges in West Africa, and developments in global clinker supply.