In brief
- On 18 June 2013, Somaliland Sun reported that Ethiopia's National Cement S.C. had started exporting cement to Djibouti and Somaliland.
- According to Sisay Kebede, as reported by Somaliland Sun, the Dire Dawa plant's capacity rose to 45,000 quintals per day after a 2 billion Ethiopian birr expansion.
- The 2013 report does not establish whether exports continued or expanded in subsequent years.
On 18 June 2013, Somaliland Sun reported that National Cement S.C. (NCSC), located in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia, had started exporting cement to neighbouring Djibouti and Somaliland. The report, citing Walta as its source, said the company commenced export after finishing an expansion that raised its production capacity and cost 2 billion Ethiopian birr.
According to Sisay Kebede, National Cement's Assistant General Manager, as quoted by Somaliland Sun, the plant increased its capacity to 45,000 quintals per day from 500 quintals before the expansion. The article added that National Cement was previously the state-owned Dire Dawa Cement Factory.
The report also said the company was supplying cement for construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a government hydro-electric power plant on the Blue Nile river in Ethiopia. No quantities or contract details were given.
Somaliland Sun did not report export volumes, destinations within Djibouti or Somaliland, logistics, or buyers. The report also did not say whether Djibouti or Somaliland authorities or importers confirmed the export start. Sisay Kebede was quoted as saying National Cement planned to export to other neighbouring countries soon, but no details were provided.
The 2013 report is the only evidence available on this development. It does not establish whether exports to Djibouti and Somaliland continued, increased, or stopped after the initial announcement. There is no later confirmation that the 45,000 quintals per day capacity became actual production, or that the company remains a cement supplier to Somaliland.
Frequently asked questions
What is National Cement's production capacity?
According to Sisay Kebede, National Cement's Assistant General Manager, as reported by Somaliland Sun on 18 June 2013, the plant's capacity was 45,000 quintals per day after expansion, up from 500 quintals before expansion.
Who are the existing major cement suppliers in Somaliland?
The 2013 Somaliland Sun report does not identify existing cement suppliers in Somaliland. It only states that National Cement started exporting to Somaliland.
How might local cement prices change?
The report does not provide any information on cement prices in Somaliland or Djibouti, or on the potential impact of National Cement's exports on local prices.