Cement/construction: A temporary crisis?
Due to climate conditions, the cement sector has had a slow start to 2026.
Cement deliveries by members of the Professional Association of Cement Manufacturers (APC) fell sharply by 15.81% at the end of February 2026, totaling 2.09 million tons compared to 2.49 million tons in the same period in 2025, according to official data published by the Ministry of National Land Use Planning, Urban Planning, Housing, and City Policy. However, this overall decline masks contrasting situations across different segments, with mortar being the only bright spot.
The situation in the cement sector at the end of February 2026 highlights the challenges facing players in the construction industry
■ A sector under pressure: Figures for the first two months of 2026 paint a worrying picture for the cement industry. With a decline of nearly 400,000 tons compared to 2025, the sector is feeling the impact of a widespread slowdown in construction activity. This decline can be explained by several structural and economic factors: inflation in construction materials, rising interest rates impacting real estate investment, and slowing demand in several key segments.
■ Moderately affected segments: The building sector shows a modest decline of 7.19% (70,646 tons), while ready-mixed concrete (RMC) is down 7.17% (558,667 tons). These segments, although declining, are holding up better than distribution, suggesting that major infrastructure projects and formal construction are maintaining a minimum level of activity.
■ Resilient segments
The infrastructure segment recorded the smallest decline among the segments in decline (-4.56%, 155,322 tons), probably benefiting from the continuation of public infrastructure projects as part of government programs. This relative resilience confirms the cushioning role of public investment in the construction sector. But the real good news comes from mortar, the only segment to show growth, with +7.14% (10,415 tons). This performance can be explained by several factors: the development of finishing and renovation work, the boom in old building rehabilitation projects, and possibly a shift towards higher value-added products. o
Fatim-Zahra TOHRY
