Cement producers explain price hikes, Philippines

Three of the largest cement producers in the Philippines have begun submitting documents to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to explain recent rises in cement prices.

Trade Undersecrertary Zenaida C. Maglaya told reporters that Holcim Philippines, Lafarge Republic and Cemex Philippines have started submitting documents to support the adjustment in prices which have risen above the Suggested Retail Price (SRP) of PHP205-210/bag.

Holcim reportedly raised its price to PHP216/bag from PHP195 last year; Lafarge (Republic brand) to PHP220 from PHP205/bag; Cemex (Rizal brand) to PHP225 from PHP195/bag; and Eagle Cement to P220 per bag from at P210.

New player Eagle Cement is set to meet with DTI and BOI officials “before the end of the month.” As a BOI-registered firm, Eagle enjoys tax breaks and other perks for its cement manufacturing operations. However, it has to sell at prices lower than prevailing levels.