"Finding a Competitive Niche in a Global Surplus Market"

“Dubai Municipality has stipulated that starting from tomorrow (April 1) all the landlords and contractors will have to use environment-friendly cement for the construction of new buildings in the UAE emirate.”    

March 2015, Trade Arabia Business News Information

“While Iran's oil potential is already largely priced into the market, analysts say other sectors such as cement, steel and agriculture commodities would also be affected. After years of neglect, should sanctions fall away, then oil exports will be able to fund an infrastructure development plan that will need steel, power and cement…"   

July 2015, Reuters

The Middle East cement markets, whilst clouded by overcapacity and plummeting oil price, is still an exciting region with lots of potential and new developments! The recent ‘Green Cement Law’ is part of Dubai government’s strategy to protect the environment, resulting in more sustainable construction. This legislation has direct implications on the cement producers as they scramble to meet market requirements, pushing the demand for blended cement and cementitious materials.

Elsewhere in the region, domestic demand remains buoyant driven by giant government projects. Riyadh and Jeddah Metro and other big ticket projects in Saudi Arabia has spurred a relatively strong demand. However the Kingdom is still battling with surplus capacity as the government contemplates to lift the long-standing export ban. 

On the other hand, Iran; one of the world’s largest exporter may see a shift in its trade equation. As the easing of sanctions could result in the country undertaking much needed construction and infrastructure works, is it likely for domestic consumption to increase and exports to decrease? 

CMT’s 10th Middle East Cementrade; led by industry experts in the region will discuss cement prospects in major markets and other related issues.