Cement Production Resumes, Shortage to End

Zimbabwe’s cement shortage is expected to end soon after major producers, including Khayah Cement and Portland Pretoria Cement, announced the resumption of full-scale production.

The shortage, which had led to a surge in prices, was attributed to operational challenges faced by some producers. However, following a meeting with the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Dr Thomas Utete Wushe, stakeholders have agreed on short-term, medium-term, and long-term solutions to address the issue.

In the short term, the government will allow the importation of cement to bridge the supply gap. The ministry has already begun issuing import licenses and permits to interested parties.

In the medium term, the ministry will work with local cement producers to assess the total annual demand and ensure that both local and international supply can meet the country’s needs. This will involve analyzing demand patterns to guide the issuance of import permits and ensure continuous supply.

In the long term, the ministry will engage with current cement manufacturers to encourage increased investment in production capacity and the establishment of new plants.

The Zimbabwe Building Contractors Association (ZBCA) has welcomed the resumption of cement production and the government’s intervention to address the shortage. ZBCA President Petros Kagwere expressed hope that the situation will improve rapidly, allowing the construction industry to continue its growth trajectory.

The liberalization of cement importation by individuals and companies with free funds, approved by the Cabinet this week, is also expected to help curb artificial shortages and stabilize prices.

Zimbabwe currently produces around 2.6 million tonnes of cement annually, while demand ranges from 1.5 million to 1.6 million tonnes per year.