Cemex Colombia, the Colombian subsidiary of Mexican cement maker Cementos Mexicanos (Cemex), the third largest cement maker worldwide, posted net sales of US$263m, up 21 per cent year-on-year, it was reported on January 19, 2005.  Cemex Colombia’s gross profit rose to US$160m, up 33 per cent.  Cemex Colombia’s operating profit rose to US$120m, up 37 per cent.  The company pointed out the higher energy costs as a negative factor, which reduced its profit.