The government is exploring the local production of polymers—the main raw material used in sachet water packaging—as part of efforts to reduce production costs and keep prices stable.
This move follows the recent suspension of a planned price increase by sachet water producers. Authorities say the goal is not just to prevent immediate price hikes, but also to create long-term solutions that reduce dependence on imported materials.
A key meeting is scheduled for Wednesday between the Ministry of Trade and industry players. The meeting will focus on rising input costs and other challenges affecting the sachet water sector.
Speaking in an interview, the Chief Commercial Officer and Director of Industrial Development at the Ministry, Kofi Addo, explained that the government acted quickly after learning about the intended price increase.
According to him, the Ministry immediately engaged manufacturers and producers to protect consumers and maintain price stability.
He noted that the upcoming meeting will help the government better understand the reasons behind the proposed price adjustment. It will also bring together all stakeholders in the value chain to ensure that any agreed-upon solution benefits everyone involved.
Kofi Addo stressed that the government is committed to resolving the issue quickly. He added that ensuring a steady supply of raw materials to support the industry has been a key priority.
As part of this effort, the Ministry has been in discussions with stakeholders across the value chain to assess the possibility of producing polymers locally. This, he said, could significantly reduce costs in sachet water production.
“So, all that we did was to make sure that we bring stability and to protect our consumers. We are having this meeting to understand the issues that led to the increment. Two, we also want to make sure that all the other players are brought on board, so that when we come out with the solution, everybody will be happy along the value chain”, Kofi Addo said.
In addition to addressing raw material supply, the government is also working to strengthen regulation within the sector. Efforts are ongoing to finalise the Consumer Protection Bill and the Competition Bill, both aimed at improving consumer welfare and promoting fair competition.
Officials believe that improving access to local raw materials and strengthening regulatory frameworks will help ease cost pressures on producers. In the medium term, these measures are expected to contribute to more stable sachet water prices for consumers.
By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang
