"Will the Emerging Markets Revitalize Trading as Over-supply Looms?"

The cement industry in the GCC and Levant is looking positive after the recent economic tsunami and liquidity crunch halted major construction and real estate projects.

"Cement production in Saudi Arabia is a profitable business. Gross margins for producers averaged 53.5% in 2009, compared with an international industry average of 32%." ~ May 2010, MEED

"Iraq has awarded UK investment and private equity, MerchantBridge, a contract to upgrade a large cement factory as the government seeks to rebuild the country." ~ May 2010, Technical Review Middle East

"Raysut Cement forecasts an improvement in demand in Oman during 2010, although competition is expected to be stiff in the face of "discounted" supplies from neighbouring and regional markets." ~ April 2010, International Cement Review

Notwithstanding production outstripping demand, the Middle East cement industry is poised for recovery as regional governments boost spending on construction projects. The Kuwait based Global Investment House reports that of the region's total $3 trillion worth of projects, there will be sufficient demand to fuel growth of the cement companies in the gulf states even if just half of the projects continues as planned [Source: Cementchina.net]

CMT's 5th MiddleEast CemenTrade is an ideal platform to meet industrial leaders and discuss issues that matters - from new market entrants to mitigating surplus.

Key Focus:

• Jordan's mega infrastructure project updates & future of the construction industry
• Demand/supply balance analysis & market outlook - Saudi, Iran, Qatar, Turkey
• Importance of South America & Brazil cement industry & impact on global trade
• Emerging markets like East Africa, Iraq & Afghanistan in meeting demand balance
• Cement Investments & Financing Challenges in the Levant & GCC
• Qatrana Cement project: Shifting the dynamics of supply & trade in Jordan
• Cementitious Material Markets, Trends & Options for Middle East
• Efficient energy conservation and generation for plant operation
• Networking opportunities and meet international panels of speakers and delegates all gathered in one location

PLUS Optional Site Visit to Qatrana Cement Plant
The Qatrana Cement plant was established in 2007 in Karak, Southern Jordan with a total investment of 400 million dollars. The choice of location (about 90 Km South of Amman) is due to its relative distance from population density, in addition to the availability of limestone in this region, which is the basic material in cement manufacturing. The plant is expected to commence its operations in July 2010 with a production capacity of 5000 tons per day.

Mark your calendar to attend the 5th MiddleEast CemenTrade today!

You Will Network With:
Senior executives from international/regional cement producers/traders, ready-mix concrete, pre-cast & building materials companies, cement raw materials suppliers (slag, fly ash, steel, coal), construction/infrastructure/building/equity/research analysts, project financiers/banks, engineering, technology & equipment providers, logistics & shipping companies (dry bulk and cement carriers)

Why Jordan?
The conference will be held at the Movenpick Resort & Spa, set on the northern shores of the Dead Sea at the lowest point on earth with over 400 metres below sea level. The hotel is conveniently located 70 km from the Amman Queen Alia International Airport. Jordan is a safe travel destination and quickly emerging as the potential business and trade hub for the Levant with its free trade policies and close proximity to key markets such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Syria. Most nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained prior to arrival or can be issued at the airport on arrival. Please check on visa requirements with the Jordanian embassy or consulate in your country.