Plummeting oil price has resulted in the slowing of the construction sector in the Middle East. However, the GCC region’s population is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.5 per cent between 2014-18 to reach 56.9m, and as such, form a solid base for regional cement demand expansion over the mid- to long term (source: Trade Arabia). In the face of adversity, the cement industry needs market opportunities to maintain high output and margins. 

Oversupply in domestic regional markets mean producers need to explore new markets to sustain profitable business. Africa remains a buoyant import market with needs for building materials to feed its infrastructure drive. However, recent growing investments of setting up plants all over the continent could adversely impact companies that export to these markets. 

Will all the projects in the pipeline, will Africa’s new capacity boost interregional trade and reduce import into the continent? How will lifting of the export ban in Saudi Arabia impact trade balance? With more supply coming from Iran and consolidation of the sector in India, what is the future of cement and clinker trade? Will domestic consumption in UAE mitigate the overcapacity scenario in the emirates? 

Returning to Dubai and for the 11th consecutive year, CMT’s Middle East CemenTrade will be the platform for industry analysts and players to network and review pressing issues in a complex market.