Qatar cement prices drop by 72%

Qatar’s construction industry has been buoyed by a relaxation on import rules, reducing shortages of materials and creating a drop in prices, according to a local newspaper.

Qatar National Cement Company (QNCC) reported to Gulf Times that adequate cement for Qatar’s requirements was now available thanks to an increase in production and the deficit being made up by imports from India and Pakistan.

“Adequate cement is available at reasonable prices in the wholesale market,” said the project manager of a leading Doha-based construction firm.

Prices for cement have now fallen to QR14 (US$4) a bag, down 72% from a high of QR50 ($14) a few months ago. Qatar has faced shortages caused by a construction boom since 2004.

Treated sand prices remain higher than average because of transportation costs but have now fallen by 33%, while steel prices have stabilised in line with international trends.