Indonesian cement consumption increased by 3.2 per cent in October 2014 and year-to-date sales were ahead by 3.4 per cent. However, industry sources caution that sales may start to slow on account of the rainy season.

During October 2014, Indonesian demand increased to 5.759Mt versus 5.579Mt in the same period of last year. Cement consumption over the first 10 months of the year reached 48.752Mt compared to 47.158Mt in 10M13.

Exports of 255,821t over the 10-month period declined by 52.5 per cent on account of lower clinker shipments. Exports of cement were 210,934t (versus 137,804t in 10M13) while clinker exports fell to 44,878t (396,934t in 10M13).

A local industry source told CemNet News that while the effect of the new government may boost demand to a certain degree, the rainy season is now starting and consumption may slow.