Africa & The Middle East

African cement producer, PPC, has reported marginally lower sales in South Africa in 4Q16 after raising prices in certain regions in October 2016.

GCC infrastructure markets offer a strong balance of opportunity and low risk with Qatar leading the way on FIFA 2022 World Cup spending.

Peter Oswald is to become Group CEO at Mondi, after David Hathorn announced his intention to retire next year.

Cemex has been included in the RobeccoSAM Sustainability yearbook 2017.

Saudi cement company, City Cement, is to start commercial operations at its grinding plant in 1H17 after a prolonged trial period.

Profit at Qatar National Cement Co. increased year on year in 2016 as infrastructure projects related to the 2022 World Cup underpinned demand.

Fives has launched a joint educational initiative with Tamkeen.

Yamama Cement has suspended operations on a number of its clinker production lines in response to weak cement demand in Saudi Arabia.

A major contract has been awarded to thyssenkrupp in Algeria.

Profits at Saudi Arabian cement company, Yamama Cement, slid by over 70% in the last quarter of 2016.

Sinoma has signed off two of its projects in Africa.

The AUCBM has opened a regional office in Amman.

Two more Saudi Arabian cement companies have announced a slump in net profits in 4Q16 on weakening demand.

Clarcor has reported its financial results for 4Q16.

Middle Eastern and African cement demand is expected to be challenged in 2017, although Africa will still show growth.