At the coordination meeting (3/2025) of the Myanmar Cement Manufacturers Association held at Meeting Room (30) of the Ministry of Industry  yesterday, the Director General from the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement announced that 534.4 million kyats’ worth of cement bags will be provided to help rebuild houses damaged by the recent powerful earthquake.

The Director General explained that due to the earthquake that struck Mandalay on March 28, houses belonging to residents across 54 townships in eight regions and states, including the Union Territory Nay Pyi Taw, suffered damage. To help repair these homes, 534.4 million kyats’ worth of cement bags — as construction materials — will be distributed using the funds of the National Disaster Management Committee.

The Chairman of the Myanmar Cement Manufacturers Association stated that, in order to reduce transport costs for consumers, cement factories in the respective regions would be tasked with production and distribution. It was also mentioned that cement was already sold directly at trade fairs held in Nay Pyi Taw and Mandalay to make it easier for people to buy, and that arrangements were being made to supply cement from eight regions and states when needed.

The coordination meeting continued, during which the Union Minister requested that the association and responsible officials from cement factories visit affected factories and workshops to understand the extent of the damage and needs. This would help factories resume operations quickly by supporting timely access to spare parts and raw material imports. The Union Minister also encouraged factory representatives to present any production challenges they face so that the ministry could help resolve them effectively.

The Chairman of the Cement Manufacturers Association shared updates on how challenges faced by factories in their production processes were being addressed collaboratively. Factory representatives discussed their individual production operations, sales and distribution activities, and the difficulties encountered. Ministry representatives who are part of the association also provided updates on how they are helping address specific needs at each factory.

The Deputy Director General from the Directorate of Industrial Collaboration discussed potential ways to transfer and apply new production technologies. Attendees also discussed the need to ensure cement products meet quality standards moving forward.