Saudi Arabia continues to mull cement exports with local companies

Saudi Arabia’s ministry of commerce is in ongoing talks with local companies that are looking to export the kingdom’s cement surpluses, said Jihad Al-Rashid, chairman of national committee of cement companies.

He explained to a local newspaper that these consultations are aimed at allowing top businesses to export their surplus cement product, which currently exceeds 22 million tons.  

Al-Rashid pointed out that such quantities are enough to supply the kingdom’s needs for up to five months to come.

Local companies could benefit from the oversupply by exporting to other markets in the region such as Qatar, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq or Sudan, he added.

According to data available on Argaam, the ministry of commerce and industry decided to stop exporting cement and clinker in 2012. At the time, the kingdom was aiming to fill local market needs and stabilize cement prices.