France: Heidelberg Materials has launched a new range of its Socli lime product that contains hemp. The product is available in two binder and two coating formulations that combine natural hydraulic lime and plant fibres. Formulated for hempcrete bio-based concrete applications, on vertical walls or for insulating intermediate floors, its high lime content increases durability, according to the producer.

Heidelberg Materials says that the Socli lime range is especially suited to the restoration of historic buildings, as it guarantees breathable walls and healthy indoor air, and prevents mould, while providing thermal and acoustic insulation. The absence of cement further increases hygrometric regulation and thermal insulation.

Kazakhstan: Construction has begun on a US$222m cement plant in the Alginsky district of the Aktobe region, developed in partnership with West China Cement. The facility will have a production capacity of 2Mt/yr and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Around 1000 workers are reportedly engaged in site preparation, including laying utility lines and building a dormitory for personnel. Once operational, the plant will create approximately 500 permanent jobs, according to Kazakhstan Newsline.

Regional governor Askhat Shakharov, during a visit to the site, said that the project will play a key role in boosting the region’s industrial capacity and strengthening cooperation with China. “The implementation of this project will help reduce dependence on cement imports and supply the domestic market with building materials. The main thing is to conduct the construction according to the schedule and in compliance with all technological requirements,” he said.

India: There was ‘significant’ disruption at a public hearing in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on 8 October 2025 due to local people protesting against the development of a new cement plant by Ambuja Cements. Police deployed but in insufficient numbers to stop protesters from rushing the stage with banners and throwing furniture.

The protesters said that local people already suffer from high pollution levels and that they ‘do not have strength to bear the additional pollution’ emitted by the new plant.

India: JSW Cement, part of JSW Group, has commissioned a 1Mt/yr cement grinding unit at Sambalpur, Odisha, through its subsidiary Shiva Cement. The addition raises JSW’s total installed capacity to 21.6 Mt/yr. According to the company, the new facility will help meet rising cement demand in eastern India. The project was developed and financed by Shiva Cement under a commercial arrangement with Bhushan Power and Steel, and will produce cement exclusively for Shiva Cement’s use and consumption.

JSW Cement CEO Nilesh Narwekar said “The eastern region of the country is poised for exponential growth in the coming years. This new state-of-the-art facility in Sambalpur marks a significant milestone in our journey to expand and consolidate our position in this market,” he said.

JSW Cement currently operates seven manufacturing plants across India, including one integrated unit, one clinker plant and five grinding units.