Cement demand on the up in the Philippines

Cement sales in the Philippines rose by 11.2% in 2009 on the back of increased election spending and high levels of construction following Tropical Storm Ondoy, which caused damage across Metro Manila and Luzon. The total 14.6 million t sold in 2009 came as something of a surprise, considering the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) had earlier predicted uncertain growth given the impact of the financial crisis.

Further growth was witnessed in the first two months of 2010. Sales went up by 16.7% to 2.5 million t – again attributed to election spending – but CeMAP President Ernesto Ordoñez is not optimistic that this level will be maintained through 2010. Growth of 4 – 6% is anticipated for the year as a whole. The actual scenario will very much depend on the outcome of the elections, however, which will determine infrastructure spending and construction activity.

Elections are scheduled for next month, with the elected government to take office by 30 June.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/asia-pacific-rim/15042010/cement_demand_on_the_up_in_the_philippines/