Moroccan cement market enters quiet period

After returning healthy figures in 2011 and at the start of 2012, Moroccan cement producers have found April more of a challenge.

"The beginning of 2012 was very encouraging, but since late March, the cement companies noted a cooldown as April has seen a decline in cement sales of around 3.37% over the same period of 2011. May should see the same downward trend, "says Mohamed Chaibi, president of the Moroccan Cement Association (APC).

No improvement is expected in the coming months. During the period of hot weather, Ramadan and religious holidays, construction sites are at a virtual standstill. "The cement manufacturers expect a recovery to September or later," he added.