Minister of Industry Sets Cement Price Cap and Opens Import Licensing

Minister of Industry Joe Issa Al-Khoury today issued two official documents: Decision No. 52/1 and Circular No. 53/1. The first sets the maximum factory gate price for a ton of black cement at ninety-six US dollars, excluding value-added tax. The second circular authorizes the import of black and white cement subject to prior licensing from the Ministry of Industry.

The text of Decision No. 52/1 reads as follows:

"The Minister of Industry,

Based on Decree No. 53 dated 8/2/2025, amended by Decree No. 278 dated 7/5/2025 (government formation),

Based on Law No. 642 dated 2/6/1997 (establishing the Ministry of Industry) and its amendments,

Based on Decree No. 13173 dated 8/10/1998 (organizing the Ministry of Industry and defining its staff and special appointment conditions for some positions) and its amendments,

Based on Cabinet Decision No. 18 dated 14/7/2020 and its amendments,

Considering the recent changes in the exchange rate,

Considering the financial and economic developments since the issuance of Cabinet Decision No. 18,

Considering the global increase in prices of cement and raw materials, especially in neighboring countries,

Based on the proposal of the Director General of the Ministry of Industry,

Decides the following:

Article One: The maximum selling price for one ton of black cement (at the factory gate) is set at ninety-six US dollars (excluding value-added tax).

Article Two: This decision shall be communicated to all concerned parties and implemented as of its date."

Circular No. 53/1 was issued to open the door for importing black and white cement under prior import licenses granted by the Ministry of Industry. The circular states:

"To ensure smooth operations in the construction sector and to stimulate the economy, and given the increased demand for cement in preparation for the reconstruction phase, the Ministry of Industry invites those wishing to import black and white cement to submit their applications to obtain prior import licenses from the Ministry of Industry. Applications must follow the approved form and be accompanied by documents verifying the goods to be imported, their ownership, type, specifications, quantities, and prices."