By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
The National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC) has taken decisive enforcement action against seven business establishments in Freetown for violating the government-approved retail price of cement, as part of ongoing efforts to protect consumers and ensure compliance with national trade regulations.
The action followed a monitoring and inspection exercise conducted by the Commission’s Compliance and Enforcement Team across the Western Area. According to the NCPC, the affected businesses were found selling cement above the price approved by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in its directive issued on May 6, 2026.
The Ministry’s directive established a nationwide retail price framework for cement in a bid to stabilize the market, prevent arbitrary price increases, and protect consumers from unfair trading practices.
During the enforcement operation, the Chief Executive Officer of the NCPC reiterated the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring that businesses adhere to government regulations designed to promote fair competition and transparency in the marketplace.
He stressed that the approved pricing structure was introduced to protect consumers from unjustified price hikes and to ensure the affordability of a key construction commodity. He warned that businesses that continue to disregard the directive would face stringent regulatory measures.
“The Commission will not tolerate practices that undermine government efforts to maintain a fair and competitive market environment. Any trader found violating the approved pricing framework will face the full force of the law,” he stated.
The NCPC disclosed that despite several public sensitisation campaigns and engagements with cement dealers, wholesalers, and retailers, some traders continued to flout the regulations. As a result, seven business premises were ordered closed pending further regulatory action.
The Commission further cautioned all cement dealers and distributors across the country to comply strictly with the approved retail pricing framework or risk sanctions, including closure of business premises, fines, and possible prosecution under the Consumer Protection Act 2020 and other relevant laws.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to remain vigilant and report instances of price manipulation or other consumer rights violations through the Commission’s official complaint channels for prompt investigation and action.
The NCPC reaffirmed its dedication to promoting fair trade practices, protecting consumer welfare, and ensuring that businesses operate within the framework of established laws and regulations.
The latest enforcement action underscores the government’s determination to maintain market discipline and ensure that consumers across Sierra Leone are protected from exploitative pricing practices, particularly in sectors that directly impact housing and infrastructure development.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 11th June 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
