Cement prices in the Zambian city of Ndola have risen by ZMW15 (US$2.84) as construction activity booms and the country’s leading producer looks to offset a rise in fuel costs.

The Times of Zambia reported that in some outlets, prices have risen from ZMW65 to ZMW80 (US$12 to US$15).

Eugene Chungu, corporate affairs and communication director of Lafarge Cement Zambia, said the hike in prices was necessitated by the recent upward adjustment in the prices of fuel following the removal a subsidy.

For the mean time, Zambezi Portland Cement (ZPC) has maintained the average price for its product at K50 per bag. However, the company’s CFO, Peter Kang'ombe, said plans are also underway to increase prices due to increased fuel prices.