The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has expressed strong opposition to policies that could harm local businesses within Ghana’s downstream sector. This stance comes in response to the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) introduced by the previous administration, which COMAC claims failed to benefit local industry players. The Chamber is particularly concerned about the negative impact on their investments and the jobs of over 12,000 Ghanaians employed within the sector.
Gabriel Kumi, the Board Chairman of COMAC, shared these concerns during an interview at the Downstream Dialogue 2025. Kumi explained that while a new government has recently taken office and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has appointed new leadership, the future of CRM remains uncertain. He noted that there has been no clear direction yet from the government regarding the implementation of the model, but COMAC is prepared to defend their interests.
Kumi further emphasized that the CRM, as it was previously implemented, failed to deliver positive results for local industry stakeholders. He pointed out that despite the government’s authority to introduce policies, it should ensure that such policies do not threaten the investments made by ordinary Ghanaians. COMAC is waiting for a meeting with the NPA and political leaders to clarify the government’s plans and understand the direction of CRM moving forward.
The CRM, initially announced by the NPA in 2024, involves filling LPG cylinders at large refilling plants, which are then distributed through specialized retail outlets known as exchange points. Under this model, consumers can exchange their empty cylinders for pre-filled ones. However, COMAC’s stance indicates skepticism regarding the effectiveness of this model in supporting local businesses and their workforce.
SOURCE: CITI NEWSROOM