The volatile world economy means forecasts cannot be made regarding the Mexican cement industry’s performance, Holcim spokesperson Gustavo Gastelum told paper Milenio.

The company does not, however, expect the local industry to meet the growth estimates posted at the beginning of 2008, the local branch representative said.

Holcim expects a slowdown in Latin America’s construction sector, which will lead to modest growth. However, performance in the region will be better than in developed economies, according to the company official.

Gastelum also said the company will be able to provide a forecast on how 2008 will close in November.