Med Basin and Persian Gulf cement trade prices decline; outlook remains positive

GREENWICH, Conn. - July 16, 2018 - PRLog -- According to CW Research's Cement and Clinker Price Assessments for Med Basin and Persian Gulf, FOB prices for cement and clinker have faced slim decreases in June.

During the month, In the Mediterranean Basin region, FOB prices for prompt deliveries of bulk ordinary Portland cement and clinker contracted when compared to May.

As noted by Ana Almeida, Analyst with CW Research: "Cement and clinker traders in the Med Basin region are lowering prices as competition tightens and Ramadan season translates into a shrinking demand."

In Portugal, during the first quarter of 2018, domestic cement consumption declined to an estimated 710,000 tons. Construction projects in the market seem to be boosting consumption; however, the bad weather conditions observed in March offset the first two positive months for the sector. Nevertheless, macroeconomic indicators are pointing out to growth, combined with developments in the external environment.

Public works boosting demand in Pakistan

In June, FOB prices for bulk ordinary Portland cement declined month on month in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea region, whereas prices for prompt deliveries of bulk ordinary grade clinker also contracted.

Commenting on the price development, Ana Almeida observed: "In June, cement exporters in Persian Gulf-Arabian Sea are recording a contraction in prices. The seasonal dull activity from Ramadan is bringing prices down."

In Pakistan, cement demand saw an increase during the last fiscal year. From July 2017 to March 2018, it recorded a 14.7 percent increase when compared to 30.3 million tons in the same period a year ago. Domestically, demand growth has been supported by government policies, which initiated several mega infrastructure projects. In terms of export, figures started improving in February this year, with special emphasis to Afghanistan.

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For more information, placing an order, or interview inquiries, please contact Mihnea Manea, Media and Market Services Executive, CW Group, by phone at +40 723 281 704, or e-mail at mm@cwgrp.com.

About the Report

The Cement and Clinker Price Assessments for Med Basin and Persian Gulf are part of CW Research's price assessment series for tradable commodities. The reports offer prompt cargo (next 30-60 day deliveries) pricing insights, regular monitoring of the market and an overview of key developments that are crucial for those involved in the cement, clinker and petcoke trade to understand. The monthly price assessments synthesize key market information based on CW Research analysts' ongoing interactions with market participants, including traders, exporters, buyers and other stakeholders involved in the cement, clinker and petcoke trade.

More information about the price assessments can be found here: http://www.cwgrp.com/research/research-products/price-assessments

About CW Group
The Greenwich (Conn.), USA headquartered CW Group is a leading advisory, research and business intelligence boutique with a global presence and a multi-industry orientation. CW Group is particularly recognized for its sector expertise in heavy-side building materials (cement), light-side building materials, traditional and renewable power & energy, petrochemicals, metals & mining, industrial minerals, industrial manufacturing, bulk cargo & shipping, among others. We have a strong functional capability, grounded in our methodical and quantitative philosophy, including due diligence, sourcing intelligence, feasibility studies and commodity forecasting. www.cwgrp.com