Global Cement News

US: Cemex and Clean Energy Fuels have entered into a fuelling agreement to supply renewable natural gas (RNG) to 39 of Cemex US’s ready-mix and cement bulk trucks in Southern California. The agreement is projected to provide around 1.1Ml/yr of RNG. Cemex plans to complete the project by the end of 2024 and start fuelling the trucks on-site soon after.

Francisco Rivera, Cemex US Regional President West Region, said "As leaders in the building materials industry, we recognise the pivotal role we play in building a more sustainable future. Embracing renewable fuels isn't just an option; it's an imperative.”

Spain: The Cemex plant in Morata de Jalón, Zaragoza, has won €2.8m in aid from the Spanish Ministry of Industry's first Perte resolution for industrial decarbonisation. This funding, part of a larger €96m aid package, will support the plant's clinker production process and its transition to using sustainable fuels.

The aid will increase the use of alternative fuels in clinker production by incorporating waste-derived and biomass fuels.

Uzbekistan: Uzbekistan's limestone output reached 0.92Mt in the first quarter of 2024, representing a 50% year-on-year increase, according to the Statistics Agency. The country's construction materials sector also saw a rise in exports, to US$153m.

The government has ambitious targets for 2024, aiming to produce construction materials valued at US$3bn and a focus on local production, the country aims to become self-sufficient and reduce reliance on imports. The country aims to boost exports to US$1.1bn in 2024.

Canada/US: Béton Provincial has concluded a transaction with CRH Canada Group to acquire several assets located in Quebec, Newfoundland, Labrador and New York.

President of Béton Provincial André Bélanger said "This significant milestone highlights the journey undertaken by Béton Provincial since its foundation in Quebec in 1960. We are very proud to see that a 100% Canadian-owned company is now making its mark alongside the major multinational players in its industry.”

India: Heidelberg Cement India recorded a 38% year-on-year increase in net profit, reaching US$5.7m for the quarter ended 31 March 2024, up from US$4.1m. The company's net revenue fell slightly by 1% year-on-year to US$71.5m from US$72.3m. Operating expenses decreased by 5% to US$61m, contributing to a 29% year-on-year growth in operating profit to US$10.7m. Interest expenses and taxation also rose by 31% and 29%, reaching US$967,000 and US$2m respectively.