Arab-International Cement Conference attracts strong global involvement

As the three-day Arab-International Cement Conference and Exhibition drew to a close in Ras Al Khaimah, U.A.E. on Wednesday; Ahmad Al-Rousan, Secretary General of the AUCBM, expressed pleasure with attendance and the participation of CemWeek and the global cement industry. 

With overall attendance surpassing 725 and over 160 exhibitors, the importance and rapid growth of the relatively young Arab cement industry took center stage.

Al-Rousan pointed to the Arab world as a key catalyst for growth in the industry with regional production expected to increase from 200 million tons in 2010 to 350 million tons in 2012.  Despite the fact that the Arab cement industry started only 45 years ago, producers now number over 165 companies with approximately 400 production lines.

Three topics of particular interest to AUCBM Conference participants and presenters included approaches to mitigate high-energy usage, issues related to environmental concerns and the use of alternative materials in cement production.  Environmental issues continue high on the Arab cement industry's agenda with a dedicated conference on the topic planned for 2011 in Jordan.

Anthony Fitzgerald, who attended the AUCBM Conference and Exhibition on behalf of Cemweek, felt that the standard of speakers and exhibitors was outstanding and compared favourably with any other show of its kind. He noted that, ÔÇ£What was particularly exciting was that, in a time of financial belt-tightening in many other areas of the world, the cement industry in the Arab World shows healthy growth and resilience.ÔÇØ

According to the Emirates News Agency, the Conference was also praised by Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, as the meeting adjourned; hailing ÔÇ£the membership expansion to include all parts of the construction industryÔÇØ and commending ÔÇ£trends in researching further specialized studies that support Arab economic integration.ÔÇØ