Philippines-based Republic Cement has announced plans to expand capacity by up to 25 per cent next year on the back of increased demand for cement products.

"Our capacity is hovering around 7.5Mta. We will increase it by close to 25 per cent by next year," said Nabil Francis, president, Republic Cement.

The president of the company added that the plans were a reaction to the government’s call to reduce dependence on imports. "The local industry needs to continue to invest and to modernise the plant in order to be in the position to fulfil the domestic demand," said Mr Francis.