PRESS STATEMENT
CURRENT CEMENT SHORTAGES AND MITIGATION MEASURES
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce wishes to inform the nation about the recent cement shortages and the government measures underway to address this challenge.
Zimbabwe has been experiencing constrained cement supply due to several converging factors. Key among these is limited domestic production caused by a widespread shortage of clinker across the cement industry. Concurrently, some manufacturers, such as Sino Zimbabwe, underwent scheduled maintenance, while others like PPC and Lafarge faced unexpected plant breakdowns.
The construction sector has seen remarkable growth under the Second Republic, with cement demand nearly tripling since 2017. This reflects a vibrant economy and has attracted significant investment, including one new entrant starting operations at the end of 2024 and two more commencing in 2025 in Hwange.
Despite this progress, current production remains insufficient to meet growing domestic demand, causing a supply-demand imbalance. Additionally, increased cement demand in Zambia—responsible for nearly 90% of Zimbabwe’s imports—has caused delays for Zimbabwean trucks at the loading point in Zambia.
The Ministry is concerned by unscrupulous individuals and businesses exploiting this temporary shortage to charge exorbitant prices. Such unethical behavior is unacceptable, and the public is urged to report any instances of price gouging.
To alleviate shortages and stabilize prices, the Ministry has increased import licenses, issuing a total of 145,000 metric tons since October 2025. Imports have started arriving, easing supply pressure. The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) is conducting loss control operations on importers who failed to pay surtax, which has slowed clearance at Chirundu.
On a positive note, Sino Zimbabwe has resumed production, and PPC’s Bulawayo plant, previously broken down, is back in operation. The cement industry has assured the government they have not raised prices and warns against panic buying, which could result in losses.
Importers are reminded that cement imports require official licenses. In line with the Ease of Doing Business initiative, licenses are issued at Ministry offices in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Masvingo, and Gweru. To expedite processing, the Minister of Industry and Commerce has waived the requirement for a CBCA certificate until 20 December 2025.
The Ministry forecasts that medium- to long-term plans will result in Zimbabwe producing a cement surplus by the end of 2026, supported by major investments. Another significant investment is expected between late 2026 and early 2027. These developments will nearly double current supply and enable Zimbabwe to explore regional market opportunities.
Requirements for import license applications remain as follows:
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Application letter
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Proforma invoice
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Current ZIMRA Tax Clearance
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Current Standard Development Fund receipt
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CR14
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Certificate of Incorporation (CR6)
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Payment of USD 100 license fee in ZWL equivalent
Issued: 24 November 2025
Ministry of Industry and Commerce
