Tanzania: The Tanzania Portland Cement Company (TPCC) has reported a 22% increase in net profit to US$37.9m in 2012 from US$31.2m in 2011.
The company's turnover increased by 15% to US$153m from US$134m. Cost of sales rose due to double-digit inflation rates and energy tariffs rising to US$80m in 2012 compared to tariffs of US$72.5m in 2011. The Tanzanian Shilling remained relatively stable compared with major trading world currencies in 2012, depreciating by less than 1% against the US Dollar.
According to the TPCC statement of audited results, local cement producers were exposed to foreign imports in 2012 as East African Community (EAC) governments decided not to reinstate suspended duties on cement in the common external tariff. The TPCC board has also approved further expansion with a new cement mill in 2013.