Increased construction activity following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in northeast Japan in 2011 has led to an increase in cement production. The Japan Times is reporting a 4.1% increase in cement production in 2013 at 61.69 million t, the second consecutive year of growth. This is the highest level since 2008 when cement output was 67.60 million t.
The steel industry has also benefited from the building boom, with a 3.1% increase in crude steel production in 2013, bringing the total output to 110.57 million t, the highest level since 2008.
An increase in consumption tax is expected in April, at which time it is possible demand will fall, but overall prospects remain positive. IA Cement is forecasting 3 – 4% growth in cement demand in 2014 as business confidence grows and commercial construction increases.
Edited from various sources by Katherine Guenioui
Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/asia-pacific-rim/24012014/increased_cement_demand_in_japan_645/
