Portland Cement’s new plant to enhance local production
Portland Cement Malawi, a subsidiary of Huaxian Cement, is set to construct a new cement plant in Balaka district with an investment of approximately K200 billion aiming to boost the local economy and reduce reliance on imported clinker and cement.
The construction of the 800,000 tonnes per annum factory, anticipated to be completed by September next year, promises to enhance local production capabilities and provide a vital substitution for imports.
This development is expected to drive growth and stability in the region’s construction sector, creating new opportunities and supporting economic progress.
Speaking in an interview, the company’s head of marketing, corporates affairs and administration Violet Vilili said once the project complete, it will meet the current demand of cement at competitive prices.
She said: “We hope the project will generate approximately $15 million annually through cement exports and contribute about K15 billion in tax revenue and K500 million in mining royalties each year.
“As a company, we expect this factory will free up $50 million annually in forex that we previously used to import cement and clinker.”
Vilili further stated that the project complements the government’s ATM strategy and will create 500 direct and 3,000 indirect jobs.
