Africa & The Middle East

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.

The Nigerian Institute of Architects is criticising the government for not adopting a clear policy on the increased cement prices, calling cement a crucial component to the vital construction sector.

Saudi Arabia has set up a national committee for cement companies, in an attempt to strengthen the Kingdom’s cement industry and stabilise local market prices.

Ras Al Khaimah Cement Company has recently reported a loss of almost AED4 million as a result of a tight market, showing decline in cement sales volumes and values.

Dangote Cement Works Ltd plans to open a new cement plant in July 2011, as part of a larger ambition to cut cement prices in the Nigerian market.

Habesha Cement SC is seeking to rent machinery for the construction project of a new road linking the local town to the new quarry and cement factory sites.

Italcementi is concerned about the effects of the situation in Egypt for the cement industry going forward in 2011.

An article discussing the current state of key players in the cement industry in East Africa. Sales targets have been met resulting in increased profit, although a rise in electricity costs has had a negative impact on some companies. Companies are hopeful for the new year with expansion plans, and commitment to reducing energy costs to increase profit and keep sales growing.

In contrast to the unrest in other North African countries, Morocco seems to have remained relatively calm.

Burundi Cement Company has begun production at its cement plant in the north-west of the country and hopes to produce around 35 000 t in 2011.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) welcomes the inauguration of Namibia’s only cement plant on 3 February.

In the UAE, cement producers have hiked prices by 15% - an increase attributed to the rising cost of energy and fuel.

Lafarge has suspended production in Egypt, following increasing political tension.