Sales volume of cement used for construction of houses and buildings in the last year decreased by 5.2% from the previous year due to the spread of the new coronavirus infection and the effects of a series of revisions to the construction plans of commercial facilities. It was the lowest level in a year.
According to the Cement Association, which is made by cement manufacturers, domestic sales last year were 39.23 million tons, down 5.2% from the previous year, the lowest level in 54 years since 1966.
The main factors were the suspension of construction work for commercial facilities such as shopping centers due to the spread of the infection, and the postponement of construction due to the decline in consumption.
On the other hand, last year's export volume increased by 6.4% to 10.97 million tons due to strong shipments to China, where economic activity has resumed.
Regarding the outlook for the future, the Cement Association said, "The number of new construction starts for buildings and commercial facilities is at a low level, and the situation may remain severe for a while. Demand may decline further depending on the spread of infection. We will keep an eye on the impact. "