The price of per tonne of cement has dropped by 31/t per cent to BHD31 (US$82.2), from BHD45.

The decrease was announced as Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro chaired a key meeting with importers of construction materials and owners of ready-mix companies.

He thanked them for their efforts and co-operation to maintain the stability of construction market and ensure affordable prices.

Customs Affairs chief Brigadier General Bassim Al Hamer attended the meeting.

Dr Fakhro stressed the government’s resolve to ensure sufficient supplies of construction materials.

"The drop in the price of cement augurs well for the other construction materials," he said. The sand imported from the UAE is being sold at BHD5/t, compared with BHD6 for the sea sand.