The National Association of Sachet and Packaged Water NASWAPAP) has agreed to maintain current prices following a crucial meeting with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.
This comes after earlier announcements of a possible price increase that raised concerns among consumers.
The National Association of Sachet and Packaged Water Producers had earlier indicated plans to increase the price of sachet water, citing rising production costs, including the cost of raw materials, fuel, and utilities.
A tonne of polymers that sold at 920 dollars is currently selling at 1200, because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, due to the US-Israel-Iran war.
The proposed increment was expected to take effect this week, potentially pushing the retail price of a bag significantly higher.
However, after a meeting with government officials, led by the Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Minister on April 8, the producers have agreed to suspend the planned increase and maintain existing prices.
The decision follows concerns about the impact of higher water prices on households, as sachet water remains a primary source of drinking water for many Ghanaians.
President of the Association, Ebo Botwe explained that although the decision comes at a cost, they will absolve it.
“We have agreed to maintain the prices at the old one, for some two or three months. We will monitor the space and if there’s need for a change, we will communicate”, he said.
Government says discussions with stakeholders will continue to find a sustainable solution that balances production costs with consumer protection.
The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu Agyare, commended the producers and assured of government’s support.
She said “The economy has been stable for a while now, and these producers were cushioned, so if they have that cushion and have done same for us, by maintaining the prices, we commend them and promise to support them in the face of any shocks”
Despite the rising cost of production, sachet water producers say they are holding prices steady for now, following government intervention.
They insist, however, that the challenges facing the industry remain unresolved, and further discussions will be critical in determining any future adjustments.
By Grace Hammoah-Asare
