Cement prices may go up by year-end

Big players: YTL had launched a takeover of Lafarge Malaysia in May and now owns a 77% stake in the latter. They control more than half of the cement market.

PETALING JAYA: Cement prices are expected to go up by the end of the year, following early signs of recovery that have come about as a result of the acquisition of Lafarge Malaysia Bhd by YTL Cement Bhd.

Demand for cement is also seen to be picking up in the fourth quarter, as mega-infrastructure projects such as LRT3 and the East Coast Rail Link which have been approved are ready to start work.