Government Takes Steps to Address Cement Shortages

The Government of Zimbabwe has taken decisive steps to address the ongoing shortage of cement in the country, which has been affecting both the construction sector and consumers.

This call was made by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce in a statement issued yesterday, advising the nation on the current supply constraints and outlining measures being taken to stabilise the market.

“The cement shortage has been caused by a combination of factors, including limited domestic production due to a widespread shortage of clinker, scheduled maintenance at some plants such as Sino Zimbabwe, and breakdowns at others, including PPC and Lafarge,” the Ministry said.

The Ministry highlighted that Zimbabwe’s construction sector has been experiencing a boom under the Second Republic, with demand for cement nearly trebling since 2017. This growth has attracted new investments into the industry, with one new player starting operations at the end of 2024 and two additional entrants commencing operations in Hwange during 2025.

“The high demand for cement in Zambia, which supplies nearly 90% of Zimbabwe’s imports, has caused delays for Zimbabwean trucks at loading points, further exacerbating the shortages,” the statement stated.

The Ministry condemned individuals and businesses exploiting the situation by charging exorbitant prices, calling for adherence to ethical business practices.

“To alleviate the shortages and stabilise prices, the government increased the issuance of import licences. Since the beginning of October 2025, a total of 145,000 MT of import licences have been issued, and imported cement has already begun arriving in the country,” Ministry added.

The Ministry further indicated that ZIMRA is implementing a loss control program to follow up on importers who did not pay surtax, which has slowed truck clearances at Chirundu.

The Ministry confirmed that Sino Zimbabwe has resumed production and PPC’s Bulawayo plant, previously affected by breakdowns, is now operational. Industry players have assured the Government that there has been no increase in prices, and the public is urged to avoid panic buying.

“Importers are reminded that an import licence is required to bring cement into Zimbabwe. To facilitate this process, licences will be issued in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Masvingo, and Gweru, and the Minister has waived the requirement for a CBCA certificate until 20 December 2025.

Other requirements, including an application letter, proforma invoice, ZIMRA tax clearance, CR14, certificate of incorporation (CR6), and a USD 100 licence fee paid in ZiG equivalent, remain in place,” the Ministry concluded.

Looking ahead, the Ministry assured the public that medium- to long-term plans will result in Zimbabwe moving into a cement production surplus before the end of 2026, with further major investments expected to almost double current supply and open opportunities in regional markets.