Local news sites have reported that Industria Nacional de Cemento (INC) will receive approximately US$67 million in funding from Paraguay’s government. This forms part of a sovereign bonds package worth some US$750 million, which has been granted to various institutions, including the energy, housing and agriculture sectors. INC will use the investment to modernise its Vallemí and Villeta plants, such as acquiring new quarry equipment and adapting the type of fuels that can be burnt. The projects will enable INC to reduce costs by around US$30 million pa, and help to lower the price of cement, and therefore construction projects, in the country.
In other news, plans are reportedly underway to construct a new cement plant in San Lázaro, helping to generate jobs in the region.
Cemex Mexico has received awards under the Greenhouse Gas Effect Programme for its coprocessing system and the reduction and management of GHG emissions.
Paraguay’s INTN has renewed Industria Nacional de Cemento’s certification according to model 5 ISO; while the country's construction industry warns of a skills shortage within the sector.