Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Delano Seiveright, says the Government has taken a series of proactive measures to ensure adequate cement supplies remain available for housing developments, infrastructure works and reconstruction projects across Jamaica.

Making his contribution in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Seiveright said the Ministry has been closely monitoring supply conditions and working directly with manufacturers, importers, distributors and construction stakeholders to address challenges affecting the sector.

He noted that the construction industry employs between 131,000 and 147,000 Jamaicans and supports thousands of additional jobs in transportation, manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and other connected sectors.

The Minister said the Government has approved additional import permits and allocations to supplement local production and help maintain market stability amid strong demand and operational challenges affecting suppliers.

Seiveright also highlighted ongoing oversight by the Consumer Affairs Commission, which continues to monitor cement availability, stock levels and pricing trends across the island.

He further disclosed that Caribbean Cement is expanding storage capacity with plans for approximately 12,000 square feet of new warehousing space in Spanish Town and is exploring additional facilities in Mandeville.

According to Seiveright, the Ministry is also strengthening its ability to anticipate supply challenges through new technical support focused on monitoring critical commodities and forecasting shortages.

The Minister told Parliament that based on current supply arrangements and interventions, the Government does not anticipate a prolonged shortage of cement and will continue taking action where necessary to support the construction sector and wider economy.