The Dominican cement industry demonstrated notable economic resilience throughout 2025, achieving a 2.3% overall increase in sales volume despite facing headwinds in domestic construction. This growth was primarily propelled by a robust 9.2% surge in export activities, which effectively counterbalanced a period of slowed local market expansion.
Domestic cement sales experienced a modest uptick of just 0.9%, signaling relative stability in local demand but falling considerably short of the vigorous growth rates witnessed in preceding years. This domestic slowdown aligns with official Central Bank figures indicating a 1.8% contraction in the national construction sector for the same period.
The industry’s successful export strategy was underpinned by significant capital investments directed toward enhancing production capabilities, optimizing operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance with stringent international quality standards. These strategic advancements have enabled Dominican producers to effectively compete in strategic regional markets.
Jorge David Pérez, President of the Dominican Association of Cement Producers (Adocem), emphasized the sector’s critical contribution to the national economy. He noted that the export expansion has been instrumental in generating vital foreign exchange earnings, reducing the national trade deficit, and bolstering industrial employment. Pérez further advocated for the implementation of public policies designed to stimulate investment in construction, infrastructure, and housing projects, underscoring the sector’s fundamental role in driving broader economic growth, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering job creation across the Dominican Republic.