26 July 2022

Zambia: China-based Huaxin Cement has increased its stake in Chilanga Cement (formerly Lafarge Zambia) to 81%. The Times of Zambia newspaper has reported that the group previously owned a 75% share of the producer.

Mexico: Beumer Group has won a contract to supply Cooperativa La Cruz Azul’s cement plants with 14 new 5500 – 6000 bag/hr palletisers. The cement company made the decision to modernise palletising operations at its plants following a law change requiring cement to be packaged in 25kg bags, instead of 50kg, from the start of 2023. Beumer Group plans to deliver the first five palletisers in the third quarter of 2022. The other nine machines will follow by 2023.

The supplier said “Cruz Azul and Beumer Group have had a trustful and successful partnership for decades. The system provider has convinced with its highly developed and sustainable technology and a sophisticated concept, which will enable the cement manufacturer to achieve the required performance in its packaging terminal” It continued “Covid-19 presented a particular challenge in this project. Due to the pandemic, it was not possible for Beumer experts to be on site with the customer in person. All concepts were discussed, debated and agreed online and with the support of the local group company in Mexico City.”

India: UltraTech Cement plans to increase its installed cement production capacity to 154Mt/yr by the beginning of the 2026 financial year on 1 April 2025. The increase represents a composite annual growth rate of 10% from 115Mt/yr at the start of the 2023 financial year. The Economic Times newspaper has reported that the producer plans to carry out the expansion in two phases.

Indian domestic cement consumption is forecast to continue growing by 5% year-on-year over a five-year period to July 2027.

India: Kesoram Industries plans to raise fund through high-cost fixed deposits at an annual coupon rate of 12%. The Business Standard newspaper has reported that the producer will use the funds to support its 10.8Mt/yr cement plant network’s working capital requirements.

India: The Indian Coal Ministry has deducted Jaypee Cement’s bank guarantee for a lease for a planned coal mine. The Hindu newspaper has reported that the project is among 44 others penalised for delays in operation or missing production targets. UltraTech Cement also received a show cause notice regarding adherence to its timeline at one of its coal blocks.