Cement Importers Push Back Against Safeguard Measures, Cite Stability

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February 17, 2025

Cement Importers Push Back Against Safeguard Measures, Cite Stability

A group of cement importers in the Philippines has strongly opposed the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) move to impose additional restrictions on cement imports, arguing that such actions could lead to price hikes and are both unnecessary and counterproductive. In a statement issued over the weekend, the traders clarified that there has been no significant surge in cement imports over the years, dismissing claims of a growing influx of imported cement.

The position paper, presented by prominent traders including Cohaco Merchandizing & Development Corp., Fortem Cement Corp., NGC Land Corp., Pabaza Import and Export Inc., and Philcement Corporation, was a response to the DTI’s ongoing investigation under the Safeguard Measures Act. The investigation, which focuses on cement imports from 2019 to 2024, has been triggered by rising import shares — increasing from 30% in 2019 to 51% in the first half of 2024 — and a reported uptick in cement imports, which saw growth of 10% in 2020, 17% in 2021, and 5% in 2023. The importers, however, emphasized that the increase in import volumes was a direct result of the country’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, where cement suppliers, particularly importers, were forced to raise their import volumes to meet the demand as domestic production slowed down. They explained that much of the imported cement was also used as raw material for locally produced cement, further distorting the actual figures of cement sales in the market.

The traders argued that the reported increase in imports was not a “surge” that would justify the imposition of safeguard measures. Rather, it reflected the necessity to meet demand in light of reduced local production. The position paper stressed that any restrictions would only create additional costs, negatively impacting both the cement industry and consumers. With the cement market balancing between imports and local production, the importers cautioned that more regulations could result in a significant increase in cement prices, which would affect ongoing construction projects and potentially slow down the sector’s recovery. The traders called for more comprehensive discussions before moving forward with any safeguard measures, urging the DTI to consider the broader economic impact of such decisions.

New Platform to Drive Adoption of Ready-to-Deploy Cleantech

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February 17, 2025

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New Platform to Drive Adoption of Ready-to-Deploy Cleantech

Canada is taking bold steps towards a sustainable future with the launch of the Cleantech Adoption Platform (CAP), an initiative by Foresight Canada aimed at overcoming the significant hurdles in cleantech adoption. The platform is designed to connect both public and private sector buyers with ready-to-deploy cleantech solutions, providing a comprehensive hub for advancing sustainable productivity and reducing environmental impact across industries.

One of the key examples illustrating the challenges cleantech innovators face is the story of a Canadian cement supplier that developed a green cement product using clean technologies. Despite the cement sector being responsible for 26% of global industrial emissions, the adoption of low-carbon cement has proven difficult, as customers are often reluctant to move away from traditional products, even when greener alternatives are cost-competitive. This barrier is emblematic of the wider issue that many cleantech innovations face: despite being market-ready and environmentally beneficial, they often struggle to achieve large-scale adoption due to ingrained industry practices and resistance to change. Jeanette Jackson, CEO of Foresight Canada, highlights that while many cleantech solutions are now reaching cost parity with traditional options in sectors like energy, transportation, and construction, the pace of adoption remains slow.

She explains, “We’ve been supporting companies in the quest to test, scale, and commercialize their solutions for several years, but cleantech adoption isn’t happening at the scale it could be.” In response, Foresight Canada has launched the Cleantech Adoption Platform (CAP), aiming to provide businesses with a centralized space where they can access a range of products, services, and case studies related to cleantech solutions. CAP focuses on key areas such as waste management, water management, energy, transportation, and buildings—sectors that are crucial to the sustainable development of industries and municipalities across Canada. The platform’s mission is to educate potential buyers on the financial and strategic benefits of adopting cleantech solutions, helping organizations navigate the transition to a greener economy. CAP will also act as a resource to support technology adoption, with the goal of enabling Canadian companies to thrive in a future-focused, low-carbon economy.

As the green cement example shows, even when cleantech products offer the same performance and pricing as traditional options, the hurdle lies in achieving widespread adoption. Jackson emphasizes the importance of a concerted effort to increase the uptake of green solutions, stating, “We need at least 100 municipalities to purchase this product to make a meaningful shift towards sustainability.” By sharing success stories and fostering collaboration, CAP hopes to accelerate the pace of cleantech adoption across Canada. Jackson believes that as momentum builds, the cleantech community will be inspired to continue driving innovative solutions that balance both environmental and economic needs. The platform represents an exciting opportunity to unlock the potential of cleantech, ultimately helping businesses achieve their sustainability targets while fostering a productive, high-impact economy.

North Van’s Historic Cement Plant Evans, Coleman and Evan

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February 17, 2025

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North Van’s Historic Cement Plant Evans, Coleman and Evan

One of North Vancouver’s most significant industrial legacies lies in the cement plant once operated by Evans, Coleman and Evans, a company that became one of the largest businesses along Burrard Inlet. Established in 1958, the cement plant at 231 Esplanade was strategically located with the CN Rail passing directly through the site, linking it to various other industrial landmarks in the region, including Horne’s Shingle Mill and the Indigenous village of Eslha7an.

Evans, Coleman and Evans made its mark as a key player in the region’s industrialisation by producing both fuel and cement, serving the growing demand of the mid-20th century. The company also operated a dock in Vancouver at the foot of Columbia Street, facilitating the transportation of goods and cement from the plant to other areas. However, as time passed, the industrial landscape of the region began to shift. In the late 1960s, Ocean Cement Company acquired Evans, Coleman and Evans, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the cement business in Vancouver. By the 1980s, the once-vibrant plant was no more, as the waterfront lots were filled in by the city to make way for the creation of Waterfront Park, a popular green space in North Vancouver.

Today, remnants of the plant’s industrial presence have faded into history, replaced by the park’s natural beauty and recreational spaces. Yet, the legacy of Evans, Coleman and Evans still lingers, a testament to the industrial roots that shaped North Vancouver’s development over the years.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Strengthen Economic Ties for Shared Future

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February 17, 2025

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Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Strengthen Economic Ties for Shared Future

In a bid to enhance economic cooperation and mutual prosperity, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have pledged to further solidify their economic ties. The reaffirmation of this commitment came during a high-level meeting between Pakistan’s Finance Minister, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, and his Saudi counterpart, Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan, held on the sidelines of the prestigious Emerging Markets Conference in the historical city of Alula, Saudi Arabia.

Both ministers emphasised their shared vision of building stronger economic bridges, aiming to unlock the vast potential of their countries’ long-standing strategic partnership. The discussions centred around broadening bilateral trade, fostering investment, and enhancing financial collaboration, with both sides expressing eagerness to pursue opportunities that would benefit not only Pakistan and Saudi Arabia but the wider region as well. Key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, technology, and finance were highlighted as critical areas for potential collaboration. The ministers agreed that continued dialogue and joint initiatives are essential to unlocking investment flows, improving economic opportunities, and strengthening the economic foundations of both nations.

The meeting underscored the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, reaffirming their shared determination to expand cooperation in the coming years. By focusing on mutually beneficial initiatives, both countries are poised to make substantial progress in fostering a robust economic alliance that will drive growth and prosperity in the future. As both nations look ahead, their continued commitment to strengthening economic ties will not only benefit their citizens but also contribute to broader regional economic stability and development.

Researchers Unveil Eco-Friendly Method for Cement Production

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February 17, 2025

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Researchers Unveil Eco-Friendly Method for Cement Production

In a major breakthrough for the cement industry, researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a revolutionary method that could drastically reduce carbon pollution, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable future for one of the world’s largest polluting sectors.

Cement, a ubiquitous material used in everything from skyscrapers to bridges, may seem like an ordinary substance, but behind its commonplace presence lies a significant environmental impact. It is the second-largest industrial source of carbon emissions globally, contributing an alarming 5% to 8% of total carbon dioxide pollution. However, a team of scientists at the University of Michigan has found a way to significantly reduce this impact without drastically altering the current manufacturing process. The new method primarily focuses on one key ingredient: limestone. When heated, limestone, a critical component in cement production, releases carbon dioxide. This step in the traditional process has long been a major contributor to global emissions. But the researchers’ approach captures an equal or greater amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than is emitted, making the overall process potentially carbon neutral or even carbon negative. This innovation could revolutionise the industry and lead to major reductions in global emissions.

What sets this new method apart from previous technological advancements is its simplicity. Unlike other innovations that require expensive modifications or new equipment, this method can be easily integrated into existing cement plants with minimal cost and effort. Xiao Kun Lu, a chemical engineering doctoral student at Northwestern University, explained that this low-entry barrier could make the method highly attractive to large cement manufacturers, who would be able to implement it with little disruption to their current operations. The financial aspect of this breakthrough is also promising. While capturing carbon is inherently expensive, this method represents a cost-effective solution compared to traditional cement manufacturing techniques. The simplicity and scalability of the process make it an ideal candidate for widespread adoption, potentially mitigating the environmental harm caused by the cement industry, which has long been a major contributor to global carbon emissions.

Professor Volker Sick, the director of the project at the University of Michigan, expressed his excitement about the development, noting that it is a “confluence of different groundbreaking technologies” that together form a solution “almost too good to be true.” Contributing author Wenxin Zhang further highlighted the potential of this technology, emphasising that it could transform the cement industry from a significant CO2 emitter into a crucial enabler for clean energy and carbon management technologies. While the findings are promising, there are still challenges ahead, particularly with scaling the technology and gaining industry-wide adoption. However, if successful, this new approach could mark a pivotal moment in the global fight against climate change, offering a greener future for the construction industry and beyond.

Despite Downgrade, Monarch Cement’s Long-Term Upside Remains Strong

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February 17, 2025

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Despite Downgrade, Monarch Cement's Long-Term Upside Remains Strong

Despite Downgrade, Monarch Cement’s Long-Term Upside Remains Strong

Despite receiving a downgrade, The Monarch Cement Company continues to present an attractive investment opportunity, showcasing solid fundamentals that support its long-term growth prospects. While some market analysts may have revised their outlook on the company, there is still a compelling argument for an upside, especially when factoring in the company’s robust cash flow generation and strategic position in the cement industry.

The Monarch Cement Company has historically maintained strong financial health, driven by its ability to manage costs effectively and produce consistently high-quality products. With its operational base in the United States, the company benefits from a relatively stable demand for cement driven by construction, infrastructure, and housing sectors, all of which are expected to remain resilient in the coming years. While the recent downgrade reflects broader market trends and cyclical factors, particularly in the construction and materials sectors, it is essential to view The Monarch Cement Company through the lens of its intrinsic value and potential for sustained cash flow generation. The company’s ability to navigate through market fluctuations, while still maintaining its profitability, suggests it is well-positioned to capitalise on future growth opportunities.

For investors, the focus should be on Monarch’s solid fundamentals, including its healthy balance sheet and consistent dividend payouts. These factors indicate that the company remains a reliable player in the market, with the potential for value creation, especially in the long term. As part of a well-rounded investment strategy, Monarch Cement may offer a favourable risk-reward balance, particularly for investors seeking exposure to cash flow-driven businesses. With the right financial management, the company can continue to build on its market position, creating opportunities for growth as the broader economy stabilises.

Cement Traders Warn Against Import Restrictions

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February 17, 2025

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Cement Traders Warn Against Import Restrictions

A group of cement traders has raised alarms over the potential imposition of import restrictions, warning that such measures could significantly hike prices and impact the construction industry. In a position paper submitted over the weekend to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the traders argued that the existing volume of cement imports does not warrant safeguard measures and that further restrictions would only exacerbate the situation.

The DTI initiated an investigation on October 28, 2024, to examine whether the rise in cement imports is damaging the local industry and whether safeguard measures are necessary. The investigation reviewed import data spanning from 2019 to June 2024, focusing on the balance between domestic production and foreign imports. The group of traders, which includes prominent firms such as Cohaco Merchandizing & Development Corp., Fortem Cement Corp., NGC Land Corp., Pabaza Import and Export Inc., and Philcement Corp., expressed that the investigation was unnecessary and counterproductive. They attributed the surge in cement imports to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely reduced local production as plants were forced to shut down or operate below capacity due to quarantine restrictions.

During the height of the pandemic, cement suppliers, particularly importers, had to increase the volume of imports to meet the demand for cement. However, as the economy began to recover and quarantine restrictions eased, imports fell by 2.89% to 6.695 million metric tons (MMT) in 2022. In contrast, foreign shipments rose by 4.74% to 7.013 MMT in 2023, with estimates predicting a further increase of 4.96% in 2024. Despite this increase, the traders believe the rise in imports does not justify the imposition of safeguard measures under World Trade Organization (WTO) standards. They argued that the figures do not accurately reflect the true volume of imported cement being sold in the Philippine market. Furthermore, a portion of imported cement is used as raw material for local production, and all cement shipments undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure they meet industry standards.

The traders pointed out that while the share of cement imports in the market has increased, this is not solely due to a surge in foreign shipments. They noted that local industry expansions, including capacity increases by major producers such as Eagle Cement Corp. and non-CeMAP (Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines) members opening new plants, also contributed to the changing dynamics. For instance, Eagle Cement expanded its Bulacan facility by adding 1.5 MMT of production capacity, while new cement plants were established in regions like Cebu and Davao. The traders emphasized that the rise in imports was primarily driven by reduced domestic production, which necessitated supplementary imports to meet ongoing demand. In light of these factors, the traders maintained that there is no immediate need for safeguard measures, stressing that cement imports have been integral to meeting the growing demand in the construction sector. Instead of imposing restrictions, they advocated for solutions that would foster both local production and the necessary imports to ensure the stability of the market and avoid price hikes that would affect the broader economy.

Dangote Cement to Invest $400 Million in Ethiopia Expansion

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February 17, 2025

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Dangote Cement to Invest $400 Million in Ethiopia Expansion

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual, has unveiled a major expansion plan for his Dangote Cement operations in Ethiopia. The $400 million investment will revive a second production line at the Mugher Cement Plant, increasing the plant’s total annual capacity to 5 million tonnes. This move reflects Dangote’s continued commitment to bolstering Africa’s manufacturing sector and reducing the region’s reliance on imported cement.

The Mugher Cement Plant, which began operations in 2015, has faced a series of challenges, including regional instability that has led to periodic violence, as reported by Bloomberg. In 2018, the facility suffered significant disruptions, including the tragic loss of lives when the country manager and two other staff members were shot during an attack. Despite these setbacks, Dangote Cement has persevered, successfully repaying all its loans and repatriating profits from its Ethiopian operations. During an announcement in Addis Ababa, Dangote explained that the expansion project, which includes a second production line, is expected to be fully operational within the next 30 months. This will position the Mugher plant to meet growing demand for cement in Ethiopia and neighbouring markets, contributing to infrastructure growth in the region.

Alongside this expansion, Dangote also revealed plans to establish a greenfield cement grinding unit with an additional 3 million-tonne annual capacity. The new facility will further solidify Dangote Cement’s leadership in the African market, where it already operates in over 10 countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania. In addition to cement production, Dangote’s interests in Ethiopia extend to agriculture. In collaboration with Ethiopian Investment Holdings, Dangote Industries is investing in the Omo Kuraz Sugar Factory, a significant step in enhancing the country’s sugar production capabilities. Dangote’s influence spans a vast range of industries across Africa, with a primary focus on manufacturing, infrastructure, and agriculture. As the continent’s largest cement producer, Dangote Cement plays a crucial role in Africa’s construction industry, helping to reduce reliance on imported materials. His vast business empire also includes Dangote Refinery in Lagos, which is set to be one of the world’s largest single-train refineries, further cementing his role in driving Africa’s economic self-sufficiency.

Titagarh Rail Systems Seals ₹537 Crore Deal

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February 17, 2025

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Titagarh Rail Systems Seals ₹537 Crore Deal

Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), a leader in railway logistics, has successfully secured a lucrative contract worth ₹537.11 crore for the supply of advanced freight wagons to Adani Cement. This major deal highlights the company’s expanding role in India’s infrastructural growth and solidifies its position in the freight logistics sector.

Under the agreement, TRSL will manufacture and deliver 16 BCFCM wagons designed specifically for transporting cement, a critical material for India’s booming construction industry. These state-of-the-art wagons are expected to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of cement transportation across the nation. In addition, TRSL will also provide BVCM brake van wagons for Ambuja Cements, further strengthening its foothold in cement and fly ash logistics. The contract is scheduled to be completed between January 2026 and March 2027, positioning TRSL to make a significant impact in the logistics domain over the next few years. By leveraging advanced technological innovations in the design and manufacturing of these wagons, the company aims to provide optimal transportation solutions that meet the high demands of its industrial clients.

This new partnership marks a notable milestone in Titagarh’s journey, reinforcing its expertise in freight transport. The company’s commitment to developing efficient, high-performance freight solutions continues to enhance its competitive edge in the railway logistics market. Anil Kumar Agarwal, Deputy Managing Director of TRSL, highlighted the company’s relentless focus on innovation, underscoring its dedication to enhancing transportation efficiency and driving India’s infrastructure development. Titagarh’s diversified portfolio, which now spans beyond wagon manufacturing to include investments in maritime and railway signalling systems, further underlines the company’s ambition to become a comprehensive infrastructure solutions provider. With its latest contract, TRSL not only strengthens its order book but also deepens its involvement in shaping the future of India’s logistics and transport infrastructure. This deal is a testament to the company’s continued growth and its pivotal role in supporting India’s infrastructure expansion.

Indian Stocks Struggle as Market Sentiment Weakens

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February 17, 2025

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Indian Stocks Struggle as Market Sentiment Weakens

Indian equity markets continued their downtrend, with both the Nifty 50 and Sensex ending the day in the red, extending their losing streak to an eighth consecutive session. The selling pressure across sectors weighed heavily on investor sentiment, contributing to the market’s struggle.

The Nifty 50 closed at 22,929.25, marking a decline of 0.44%, or 102.15 points. Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex ended at 75,939.21, shedding 0.26%, or 199.76 points. Market participants showed caution as the broader indices faced consistent pressure, indicating a bearish undertone in the market. Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities, noted that the bulls in the Nifty index continue to face significant challenges. “The market remains under the grip of a bearish phase, with the Nifty closing below the crucial 23,000 mark after attempting to hold above it in recent sessions. Despite the index managing to close 155 points off its lowest point of the day, sentiment remains weak,” De remarked.

The market’s negative momentum was further reinforced by the Nifty’s trading below a critical short-term moving average. De highlighted that a decisive breach of the 22,800 level could exacerbate the market’s troubles and trigger more panic selling. On the other hand, he pointed out that the immediate resistance for the index lies at 23,100, and surpassing this level may provide some relief to the market participants. The current market scenario underscores the ongoing pressure faced by Indian equities, with weak investor sentiment and concerns about the broader economic outlook. As the bears continue to dominate, market participants are advised to remain cautious and vigilant, with an eye on key technical levels that could provide further directional cues. The market’s vulnerability is evident, and while a short-term rally may provide hope, a decisive trend reversal seems distant unless the 23,100 level is decisively surpassed. As such, traders and investors are advised to tread carefully as the market remains susceptible to volatility.

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