Honduras implements new technical regulations for cement

Honduras has implemented a new Technical Regulation for Cement, effective October 6, to establish mandatory requirements for quality, registration, and certification. Approved by the Ministry of Economic Development, the regulation aims to ensure infrastructure safety and promote fair competition through standardized certifications.

Currently, three companies—Argos Honduras, Cementos del Norte (CENOSA), and Inversiones Cementeras de Centroamérica (DURACEM)—have obtained official registration. The regulation prohibits the commercialization or importation of cement without technical registration, effectively removing certain imported brands, such as Chinese cement, from the market.

Critics, including former official Fausto Cálix, have warned that the measure could lead to a “cementazo,” or a sharp increase in prices. Cálix noted that while imported brands like Wan Peng were priced between 160 and 180 lempiras, national brands range from 200 to 240 lempiras. He cautioned that reduced competition could increase construction costs, impact economic growth, and lead to higher unemployment within the sector.