The output of Mexico’s cement producing companies increased 12 per cent YoY from January to April 2006, boosted by a rise in the capacity and demand, according to local press reports. National cement demand is expected to increase by four per cent YoY in full 2006, mainly in infrastructure and housings sectors. The rise in cement output in full 2006 will be the highest since 2000, according to Osmin Rendon, president of Mexico’s national Cement Chamber (Canacem). 
 
Mexico’s cement sector will invest US$450m in the construction of plants, the enlargement of existing facilities, maintenance and environmental protection, Rendon said.  The construction of a new cement plant by Lafarge in Tula, Hidalgo state, central Mexico, has attracted a total investment of US$121m. Mexican cement maker Cementos Cruz Azul will invest US$150m in a plant that is seen to open at end-2006. Cementos Moctezuma will invest US$130m in the introduction of a second line of production.