In January 2014, 819 600 t of grey cement was produced in Colombia, 2% higher than the amount manufactured in January 2013. Domestic sales volumes also increased, rising by 1.1% y/y to 806 200 t.
Cement sales fell by 50.9% in Córdoba during the month and contracted by 23.8% in Bolívar. Elsewhere in the country, dispatch levels showed positive improvements. Sales grew in Cundinamarca (24.8%), Antioquia (7.6%), Magdalena (37.6%) and North Santander (35.7%).
Employment in Colombia’s construction sector increased by 8% in 2013, the equivalent of 103 000 new direct jobs. New employment within the construction industry accounted for 18% of new jobs in Colombia last year.
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.
Bolivian President Evo Morales has outlined aims to lower the country’s reliance on Brazilian and Peruvian cement imports through the establishment of new cement plants, whether they be state-owned, private or cooperatives.
Ecebol has announced a tender for the construction of a new cement plant in the state of Oruro, while Soboce outlines its expectations for the year ahead.