Siam Cement sees strong demand into 2013

Increased demand witnessed over 2012 in Thailand will continue rising well into next year, according to the head of the Siam Cement Group (SCG).

"The momentum of demand growth stimulated by infrastructure projects will likely continue well into mid-2013," Kan , president and CEO of SCG, told the Bangkok Post.

Recovering from the floods last year, YoY cement demand grew by only six per cent in this year's first quarter before of 2012 picking up with 10 per cent and 16 per cent increases in the second and third quarters, respectively. However, Mr Trakulhoon added that cement growth for this year's final quarter is expected to be not less than 20 per cent.

Furthermore, for the first time, demand from the outer provinces has outstripped the Greater Bangkok region in terms of demand as modern trade and property developers expand outside the Thai capital.
‘Upcountry’ demand now accounts for 70 per cent of domestic cement consumption, up from 40-45 per cent previously.. In terms of cement demand by construction sector, just over half of comes from the housing sector, 30 per cent from infrastructure projects and 18-19 per cent from commercial buildings, warehouses and modern trade outlets.