Africa & The Middle East

Katherine Markham looks at the cement market in Egypt and surrounding countries in the wake of the political uncertainty that has spread across the region.

Ethiopia’s cement output is set to increase by over 50% later on this year to in a move towards self-sufficiency.

North Sinai Cement’s Chairman predicts the Egyptian cement sector will expand production capacity by 30% by 2012.

The new Sh.500 million plant will add between 2000 – 4000 tpd to the company’s current capacity.

A recent hike in cement prices has left consumers disappointed and angry.

The increasing cement prices across Nigeria in the last four months have left stakeholders concerned.

An update from some key cement manufacturers in Sub-Saharan and East Africa.

Dangote group has signed a US$3.9 billion contract with Sinoma International Engineering Company to construct additional cement lines in six African nations.

The lack of long-term availability of natural gas is cited as reason behind suspending cement plant construction plans in northern Oman.

Dangote Group has recently announced the total dividend payout of N65.84 billion for the financial year ended in December 2010.

Analysts are discussing the current merger and acquisition trend in the UAE, pointing at RAK Cement as a possible candidate for a takeover.

Two new cement plants are about to begin operations, promising cement production in Mozambique to reach 4 million tpa by 2013.

Lebanese cement production has tripled in recent years, although experts predict fierce competition from oil-producing cement manufacturers in the future.

Orimix Concrete Products is taking advantage of the current favourable market conditions and plans to expand into Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The Tanzanian cement giant reported positive financial results despite a challenging last year.