Kingston, Jamaica, 20 June 2026
Cabinet has cleared the way for more cement to be brought into the island, as the Government moves to close a supply gap that has been squeezing builders and households rebuilding after Hurricane Melissa.
Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Aubyn Hill explained the decision at the post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House on Wednesday, 17 June.
Why supplies ran short
Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL), the country’s main producer, has pointed to two problems on the production side. Heavy rain affected its raw materials, and expansion work on its kiln forced changes to operations. At the same time, demand climbed as families and contractors began repairing and rebuilding homes damaged by the hurricane.
In response, the Government opened the door for importers to supply the local market. Mr Hill said officials had worked through growth projections to estimate how much cement the country would need.
Shortage easing, minister says
According to the minister, CCCL has already increased its own imports, while new importers are putting their arrangements in place. As a result, he said, the shortage has become much less of a concern, and supply is now available to match demand.
Reconstruction projects need a separate plan
Mr Hill made clear that the current import allocation does not cover the cement that will be needed for work under the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA). Large projects will call for special quantities, he noted, and that demand will fall away once they are finished. For that reason, separate arrangements will be required when the authority’s programme gets under way.
What it means for homeowners and builders
Cement is one of the most basic inputs for any block-and-steel home, and shortages can stall roof repairs, extensions and new builds alike. More supply on the market should make it easier for households and small contractors to find the material they need to keep work moving.
Anyone planning construction in the months ahead should still budget carefully and confirm availability with suppliers before starting. Once large reconstruction projects begin, demand could rise again, so how the Government handles those separate arrangements will matter for the wider building market.
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