The government is exploring the local sourcing of polymers—the primary raw material used in sachet water production—as part of efforts to reduce production costs and stabilise prices.
This follows the suspension of a proposed price increase by sachet water producers, which had raised concerns among consumers and industry stakeholders.
The move comes ahead of a crucial meeting scheduled for Wednesday between the Ministry of Trade and industry players. The engagement is expected to address rising input costs and broader challenges affecting the sachet water sector.
Chief Commercial Officer and Director of Industrial Development at the Ministry, Kofi Addo, said the government acted promptly upon learning of the planned price hike.
According to him, the Ministry initiated discussions with manufacturers to safeguard consumers and maintain price stability.
“Last week, we had information about the intended increment. As a Ministry, we quickly engaged producers to ensure stability and protect consumers,” he explained.
He noted that the upcoming meeting will focus on understanding the factors behind the proposed increase, while also ensuring that all stakeholders across the value chain are involved in finding a lasting solution.
“We want to make sure all players are brought on board so that any solution we arrive at will be beneficial to everyone within the value chain,” he added.
Mr. Addo further assured that the Ministry is committed to resolving the issue swiftly, with a strong emphasis on ensuring a steady supply of raw materials to the industry.
“As a Ministry, we are highly concerned about supplying the industry with available raw materials. Since the holidays, we have been engaging key players to explore the possibility of sourcing polymers locally,” he said.
Beyond immediate interventions, the Ministry is also working to strengthen regulatory frameworks to enhance consumer protection and promote fair competition.
He revealed that efforts are ongoing to finalise the Consumer Protection and Competition Bill, which is expected to address persistent challenges within the sector.
Authorities are optimistic that improving access to local inputs, coupled with stronger regulations, will help ease cost pressures and ensure stable sachet water prices in the medium term.
