Imo sachet water producers halt production for three days due to rising costs of nylon and diesel, causing local shortages and price increases
Producers of sachet water in Imo State have temporarily halted operations for three days amid rising production costs, particularly the price of nylon used for packaging, the Association of Table Water Producers (ATWAP) has said.
The shutdown, which began on Monday, has caused shortages in Owerri and surrounding areas.
Residents reported that a bag of sachet water, previously sold for ₦350, now costs around ₦500.
Retail hawkers, who used to sell three sachets for ₦100, were observed selling a single sachet at the same price.
Some producers, speaking on condition of anonymity, attributed the shutdown to rising diesel and nylon prices, which have increased sharply due to the ongoing conflict in Iran.
One source said the temporary closure aimed to allow the industry to adjust prices while maintaining sustainability.
However, ATWAP State Chairman Bismark Lumanze denied that producers were striking, insisting the break was for routine maintenance.
“We are not on strike. The three-day shutdown ensures our machines are cleaned, filters replaced, and production facilities serviced to guarantee clean and safe water,” Lumanze said.
Lumanze confirmed that price adjustments had already been implemented before the maintenance break and assured residents that supply would resume at midnight on Thursday.
He also highlighted regulatory pressures, including environmental concerns and potential legislative changes by the National Assembly aimed at streamlining the sector.
The temporary halt has underscored the sensitivity of essential goods to global commodity fluctuations, with consumers feeling the immediate impact of production and supply disruptions.
