Fiji cement supply shortage continues

Major hardware stores and private house builders on Fiji are still awaiting cement supplies despite the island's sole cement producer stating that production has resumed after a fault with its mill.

Last week, local press reported that the main motor shaft at Fiji Industries Ltd's (FIL) mill had broken down leading to a shortage of cement on the domestic market. This has led a number of local builders having to lay off workers until more cement is made available.

The disruption to production has affected a number of construction companies who are awaiting supplies to resume. The Fiji Times quoted one resident on the Pacific Island Mukesh Kewal as saying he had to halt building works on his home because he could not find cement from major distributors. In the process, seven labourers were forced to take leave - a decision Mr Kewal said was unavoidable. "I'm not the only one affected," he told the local press. "Construction companies and businesses are also affe cted by the short supply."

Meanwhile, Vinod Patel & Company Limited retail sales manager Narend Prasad said they received a number of enquiries from customers, including outer-island residents, about the availability of cement.


Fiji Industries general manager Mosese Natuilagilagi confirmed on Friday that the problem had been remedied, adding:  "We are still in the process of distributing stock but we should start distributing cement from tomorrow [Friday 14 December]. People can expect normal supplies by next week," Mr Natuilagilagi added.