The MIIC Takes Action to Stabilise Cement Supply and Support Key Economic Sectors

Kingston, Jamaica: The Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Jamaica’s Business Ministry, wishes to advise the public that the continuous heavy rainfall across the island in recent weeks has resulted in operational challenges at Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL) which has affected the supply of cement in the market. Interim measures have been swiftly implemented to address the shortfall and stabilise supply.

Caribbean Cement Company is taking urgent action to restore production to optimal levels. The company has been working to address operational challenges, stabilise affected equipment, and improve production conditions. As a further measure CCCL has diverted a vessel, previously en route to the Bahamas to arrive in Jamaica on Saturday, April 25, to improve local supply. The company has also made arrangements for an additional 28,400 tonnes to be delivered in early May.

The Ministry under the leadership of Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, has approved an additional quota that allows for importation of supplementary cement by Buying House Company Limited to assist in meeting immediate demands market wide, but primarily in Western Jamaica.

“We recognize the importance of maintaining stability in cement supply, particularly at a time when construction remains a key reliever of the pain of the devastation brought by hurricane Melissa. Cement is a vital product and measure of economic momentum and national growth. The Ministry has acted to ensure that any short-term disruptions are mitigated so that builders,
developers, and investors can continue their work with confidence.

This imminent arrival of new imports will support stability across the construction industry while safeguarding jobs. The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and work with industry partners to ensure the market functions efficiently,” stated Minister Hill.

In the interim CCCL has assured the Ministry that the company continues to work to address the
remaining constraints to return production to projected levels.