Cement shipments in Chile fell 0.4% to 1.85Mt in the first semester compared to 1H03, according to information from the country’s cement and concrete institute (ICH).  The drop in the first few months of this year was due to the conclusion of large infrastructure projects.  For the period, Melón held the top market share position in regard to shipments with 37.6% (696,423t), followed by Polpaico with 33.5% (620,326t) and Bío Bío with 28.9% (534,268t). Last year Melón held a 38% market share, Polpaico 33% and Bío Bío 30%.  In 2003, cement shipments in Chile grew 4.6% to 3.62Mt for the year as a whole.