Brazilian cement demand edges up 1% in 1Q19

Brazil’s cement sales increased 1.3 per cent YoY to 12.7Mt in the 1Q19, according to preliminary data from the country’s cement association, SNIC.

The modest rise in demand has been driven by the real estate sector as federal and state governments have seen a low level of investments.

"The indicators of real estate financing continue to advance, which leaves us optimistic to project growth of approximately three per cent in the year," said SNIC president, Paulo Camillo Penna

In March cement sales contracted 6.6 per cent to 4.06Mt when compared with March 2018 although the month saw fewer working days due to the carnival holiday.

In the last 12 months (April 2018-March 2019) consumption slipped 0.3 per cent YoY.