Japan: Cement sales in Japan increased by 2.1% year-on-year in the year to 31 March 2012 to 41.91Mt, according to figures released by the Japan Cement Association. Sales were up for the first time in six fiscal years on the back of earthquake reconstruction and rebuilding.
Sales grew particularly in the Tohoku region due to very strong reconstruction demand in areas devastated by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. The Greater Tokyo area also contributed to the rise, seeing an increase in urban redevelopment projects.
In March 2012 alone domestic cement sales rose by 8.7% compared to 2011 to 3.64Mt, the fourth straight monthly rise.
