ASEC Minya Cement plant inaugurated in Egypt

Overcoming the challenging economic and political environment in Egypt, ASEC Cement has officially commenced production at its ASEC Minya Cement plant in the Minya governorate, some 200 km from South Cairo and 50 km from North Minya city.

Construction on the new plant began in December 2010, but had to be put on hold just one month later with the advent of the 25 January Revolution. In spite of this, construction recommenced and the project was completed within 28 months.

A strategic approach to Egypt’s challenges

Giorgio Bodo, CEO of ASEC Cement, said that the challenges of security problems and fuel shortages in Egypt had been difficult to overcome, but that the company had created an alternative strategic plan to ensure that the project could go ahead. The new plant will create 400 direct job opportunities and 800 indirect jobs. He expressed his gratitude to all who had made the project possible.

The ASEC Minya Cement plant cost almost US$360 million and will produce 2 million tpa of cement. It has been built to the highest international standards to meet environmental and technological requirements. The plant is expected to link to the national electricity grid through a connection at the Samalote station. For the time being, however, the plant can run on electrical generators and other temporary solutions.

The ASEC plant is one of the largest projects in Egypt. In addition to its economic role in the region, the company will also contribute in terms of social projects.

Edited from various sources by Katherine Guenioui