The volume of cement production by Argentine enterprises in January-December 2020 decreased by 11.1 % compared to January-December 2019, down to 9.87 million tons. However, production volume in December 2020 increased by 33.6 % YoY, up to 993,800 tons, according to the Association of Cement Producers of Argentina.
Based on the results of 11 months, the association predicted a drop in cement production in 2020 by 11.5 %, down to 9.83 million tons. In June 2020, the association predicted a drop of 22.1 % YoY.
Consumption of cement in the 12 months of 2020 decreased by 11.5 %, amounting to 9.74 million tons. Cement consumption in H1 2020 was down by 30.7 % YoY. Cement consumption in December amounted to 976,900 tons, which is 33.3 % more than in December 2019.
Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, on March 20, Argentina was quarantined and construction works completely stopped. Since April 16, with the support of the Argentine Chamber of Construction, a special protocol "Practical recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic" has been approved, which allowed construction works to be carried out, subject to ensuring the necessary health measures. The protocol was developed as part of the state program for the resumption of construction activities in the country.
