Najran Cement announced a temporary closure of its second cement line yesterday for scheduled maintenance, which is likely to cost around SAR400,000 (US$106.655). The shutdown is not expected to affect the company's supply of cement to the market. The closure follows repairs to the company's first line which has already been closed twice this year.

Work also began to start pilot production at Najran Cement's third line earlier this year. The new line is being constructed by China's CEIC, who will also operate and maintain the line.

Najran Cement has been recording strong sales as cement demand has been high in its local markets, although operating costs are now lower than last year.  It saw a 41 per cent increase in net profit to SAR151.2m (US$40.3m).