The East African Cement Producers' Association (EACPA) has objected to proposals by the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) to raise power tariffs by 68 per cent due to the significant knock-on effect it will have on cement production costs.

According to reports by The Citizen, the association has claimed that its member are already significantly impacted by costs related to power rationing, adding that cement producers recorded 1782 power rationing cases between 2012-13.

A statement issued in Dar es Salaam at the weekend by Catherine Langreney, EACPA -TZ Chapter chairperson, said: “We strongly oppose any increase on the power supply tariff by Tanesco and request an urgent solution for the deficient service provided. Should the proposal be accepted, it would have a direct impact on the Tanzanian cement industry production costs of up to TZS1150/bag.

“This amount will be 100 per cent charged directly to the final consumer thus negatively affecting infrastructure and economic development of Tanzania,” Ms Langreney said.