Results from the Cement Production, Shipments, and Inventories Statistics of the Central Bank of Ecuador (BCE) confirm that, in June 2026, the cement industry recorded favorable performance, driven primarily by increased construction activity. The growth in production and shipments, together with the reduction in inventories, reflects greater dynamism in the sector at the beginning of the dry season.
In this regard, in June of this year, national cement production reached 452.4 thousand metric tons, representing an 8.6% increase compared to May and a 12.1% increase compared to the same month in 2025. Total shipments amounted to 453.7 thousand metric tons, with increases of 5.8% compared to the previous month and 14.2% year-on-year. In contrast, inventory levels decreased to 35.4 thousand metric tons, reflecting greater movement of cement into the market.
The sector’s performance benefited from the beginning of the dry season, a period that provides more favorable conditions for the execution of civil works and construction projects. In addition, the continuation of tax incentives, such as Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds for construction companies, and the progress of both public and private infrastructure and housing projects contributed to strengthening demand for construction materials.
The cumulative results for the first half of the year confirm the positive trend in cement industry activity. Between January and June 2026, production reached 2.503 million metric tons, 13.4% higher than the figure recorded during the same period in 2025. Over the same period, shipments totaled 2.487 million metric tons, representing a 15.0% year-on-year increase.
The figures presented reflect the recovery of the construction sector, which has been observed since the previous year and is supported by greater implementation of housing projects, road infrastructure, and works in urban areas. In turn, the increase in cement demand has enabled greater utilization of the industry’s installed capacity, amid a gradual strengthening of public and private investment.
In light of the above, and based on the performance recorded during the first half of the year, the outlook for cement industry activity for the remainder of 2026 is considered favorable, supported by the continuation of weather conditions conducive to construction, the development of new projects, and the maintenance of incentives that stimulate investment in the sector.
Strategic Communications Sub-Directorate – Economic Studies and Statistics Division
A detailed breakdown of the figures for this productive activity is available at the following link:
