Zimbabwe boosts cement imports to address shortages amid high demand

Zimbabwe's Ministry of Industry and Commerce has increased cement importation through the issuance of import licenses to address the country's cement shortages, it said in a statement on Nov. 24.

The ministry stated that Zimbabwe has been facing a constrained cement supply due to limited domestic production, which is caused by a widespread clinker shortage. Producers have also been experiencing breakdowns and scheduled maintenance, further reducing the supply.

Since the beginning of October, the ministry has issued 145,000 mt of import licenses, leading to more participants importing cement into the country.

The increase in demand for cement has led to truck delays at the loading point in Zambia. The ministry said that the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority has been carrying out a loss-control program and following up on importers who have not paid surtax, leading to slow clearance of trucks at Chirundu on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border.

Demand for cement in Zimbabwe has tripled since 2017 across both the private and public sectors, according to the ministry, adding that production remains inadequate to meet growing requirements.

Strong demand for cement from Zambia, which accounts for 90% of Zimbabwe's imports, along with delays at Zambian loading points, has led to some pricing cement at "exorbitant and ridiculous prices," according to the ministry.

The ministry has said that Zimbabwe's medium- and short-term cement plan will move the country toward a production surplus by the end of 2026, supported by significant investments.

Investments are expected to lead to expanded production toward the end of 2026 and into 2027, with these additions projected to nearly double the current supply and create opportunities to reach regional markets.

Platts last assessed CEMDEX Turkey at $53.50/metric ton FOB on Nov. 20, down $1/mt week over week.