Vietnam: The country exported 19.8Mt of cement and clinker worth US$745m in the first seven months of 2025, up by 9% in volume and 7% in value year-on-year, according to the General Department of Vietnam Customs. The Philippines remained the largest buyer with 3.87Mt worth US$147m, accounting for nearly 20% of total shipments. However, exports to this market fell by 17% in volume and 21% in value compared to 2024. Bangladesh ranked second with 3.53Mt worth US$116m, while Taiwan and Malaysia followed, each importing more than 850,000t.

India: JK Cement has commenced construction of a US$340m greenfield cement plant in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The new facility, spread across 212 hectares, is scheduled for completion by early 2027. The plant will reportedly ensure long-term raw material security through access to local limestone reserves, while also being close to high-demand markets in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana.

Nigeria: BUA Group has condemned the killing of eight Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operatives and a civilian driver in an armed attack near its cement plant in Okpella, Edo State, on 5 September 2025.

According to The Premium Times newspaper, the personnel were escorting five Chinese nationals back to the facility after a routine patrol when gunmen suspected to be kidnappers ambushed the convoy. The assailants opened fire, killing the operatives and driver.

Four of the Chinese nationals were rescued by NSCDC operatives, while one was abducted. Four other NSCDC members were injured and are now reportedly receiving treatment.

“BUA is deeply saddened by the attack of Friday 5 September 2025, in which eight operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and a civilian driver lost their lives near our Okpella facility in Edo State. We note with grave concern the abduction of a foreign expatriate, even as four others were rescued unharmed. We are working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted and to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice,” the company said in a statement.

India: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has approved a reduction in GST on cement, lowering the rate from 28% to 18%. The new rate will come into effect from 22 September 2025, a move expected to reduce capital costs for infrastructure projects and improve cash flows for developers. The structural boost is expected to accelerate cement demand growth to 8–9% per year over the next two financial years from 6-8% previously estimated.