Global Cement News

Azerbaijan: Cement production reached 4.03Mt in 2024, up by 1.6% year-on-year, according to the State Statistics Committee. The total value of the construction materials sector rose by 17% to US$823m. Production of bricks and similar products from cement and concrete increased by 41%, while cement clinker output grew by 16%.

Nepal: The Public Accounts Committee of the House of Representatives has received a complaint alleging that cement producers have created artificial shortages in order to raise prices, according to Republica newspaper. A meeting has been scheduled to discuss the complaint.

Saudi Arabia: Northern Region Cement has announced a projected 10% increase in production costs following Saudi Aramco's adjustment of fuel prices.

The company stated that it will explore strategies to mitigate the financial impact, focusing on cost reduction and enhancing production and operational efficiency.

Brazil: thyssenkrupp Polysius has secured a front-end engineering design contract from Circlua for the construction of the world’s largest activated clay plant, with a capacity of 0.96Mt/yr (3000t/day). The plant will be largely powered by renewable electricity, and will be located in Pará, utilising clay sourced from the Carajás iron ore complex. The clay contains up to 80% kaolinite content, and will be upcycled as supplementary cementitious material.

thyssenkrupp Polysius CEO Christian Myland said “We are honoured to partner on this landmark project. Leveraging high-quality local clay and our advanced activated clay technology, this plant will set a new benchmark for carbon-conscious cement production.”

India: A coal hopper has collapsed at the Dalmia Cement (Bharat) plant in Rajganpur, Odisha, leaving several workers trapped under debris. According to the latest reports, 64 workers have been rescued or evacuated, but three remained trapped overnight. A large-scale operation by the authorities has been launched, with cranes and heavy machinery being used to clear the debris and attempt to find the trapped workers. Fatalities have not been confirmed.

A statement from Dalmia Cement (Bharat) said "The accident occurred at around 6:00 pm on 16 January 2025, wherein the whereabouts of three persons are yet to be ascertained. The injured have been provided with immediate treatment and the best medical care is being provided by the company.”

The statement added that the plant area has been cordoned off, according to Money Control news.

Update: On 18 January 2025, three bodies were recovered from the debris of the collapsed structure, after a 36-hour attempt. The plant is now closed until an investigation into the accident has taken place.

Dalmia Cement (Bharat) released a further statement, saying “We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident at the captive power plant in Rajgangpur. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the three workers who lost their lives in this incident. We are extending full support to the bereaved families in close coordination with the district administration, including education, livelihood and compensation.”